Pleasant Grove, Utah – A tragic incident in Pleasant Grove, Utah, has resulted in felony charges against an 80-year-old man who allegedly ran over a 9-year-old boy riding his bicycle. The case has drawn attention for the unusual circumstances, including the driver’s claim that he did not realize he had struck the child.
Incident Details
On the afternoon of April 25, George Parker Hunter, driving a white pickup truck, reportedly struck 9-year-old Dalton Gibbs as the boy rode his bike home from school. According to court documents, Hunter turned into an intersection and allegedly hit Dalton, dragging him approximately 50 feet while witnesses attempted to get him to stop.
“I knew I hit a bicycle, but I didn’t think there was a kid on it,” Hunter reportedly told someone at the scene, according to an officer’s observation.
Despite multiple witnesses signaling Hunter, he allegedly sped away, leaving Dalton trapped under the truck. Dalton was eventually freed, but his bicycle remained under the vehicle. Hunter later explained to police that he initially believed another driver was waving him away from a different bicycle, and only after hearing a screeching noise did he notice Dalton’s bike in his rearview mirror.
Charges Filed
Hunter now faces:
- Second-degree felony manslaughter
- Third-degree felony leaving the scene of an accident involving death
Authorities have emphasized that while Hunter had a valid driver’s license, his age and “diminished faculties” may have played a role in the tragedy, according to Pleasant Grove Police Captain Britt Smith.
“Somebody’s father, somebody’s grandparent, who has diminished faculties and is operating a vehicle on the roadway,” Smith said.
Hunter was later located at the Spanish Fork Fairgrounds, questioned by police, and his statements were recorded in the court documents. At the time of writing, Hunter was not listed on the Utah County inmate roster.
Family Response
Dalton’s parents, Tyler and Kim Gibbs, have expressed forgiveness toward Hunter. In an interview with KSL, they emphasized that they do not support criminal charges, stating:
“We know he didn’t intend to do this.”
In a joint statement, the Gibbs family added:
“This tragedy has changed our lives, his included. We know that he is deeply remorseful. We don’t desire that he or his family should endure additional punishment beyond what they’ve already experienced. We do not believe that incarceration or similar severe measures will provide the good that is needed. We believe there are other options that can be explored to ensure public safety and maintain the integrity of the driver’s family.”
The family clarified that they are not pressing charges themselves, but shared their sentiments with the County Attorney’s office after the decision to file charges.
Legal and Community Implications
The case has sparked discussions about elderly drivers, road safety, and the responsibilities of drivers with potentially diminished faculties. Authorities note the balance between public safety and the personal circumstances of older drivers as critical when reviewing similar incidents.
Residents are reminded that bicyclists and pedestrians remain vulnerable on roadways, and any accident involving a minor is treated with the utmost seriousness. Experts emphasize that awareness, vigilance, and adherence to traffic laws are essential to prevent tragedies.
Conclusion
The death of Dalton Gibbs serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life on the roads, especially for children and those vulnerable in traffic situations. While Hunter faces felony charges, the Gibbs family’s forgiveness highlights the complex interplay between justice, intent, and compassion.
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