A tragic Halloween accident in Taylorsville three years ago is prompting action to ensure pedestrian safety

TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (KUTV) — Halloween marks three years since the tragic night that changed two families forever, when children trick-or-treating were hit by a car.

In October 2021, friends Karl Finch and Spencer Wall were going trick-or-treating in Taylorsville when a driver hit them in a crosswalk. Karl was killed, and Spencer, although critically injured, survived.

KUTV spoke with Spencer’s mom about that devastating Halloween night and their ongoing fight for justice.

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The intersection of 2700 West and Matterhorn Drive is where Karl and Spencer were hit on the night of October 30, 2021.

Three years later, Spencer’s mother said both families are still fighting not only for justice, but for meaningful change.

Cary Wall recalls the harrowing moments after the accident: “We had to park the car on the side of the road and just run down to get to where Spencer was. I heard him scream.

Although the memory of that night still haunts her, Walls expressed her frustration with the lack of accountability.

In 2022, she said Salt Lake County Prosecutor Sim Gill decided not to bring criminal charges against a driver who was impaired and driving with a suspended license. After charging the driver, city authorities announced that the city had entered into an agreement with him without their knowledge.

Asked if she ever spoke to the driver, Wall replied: “No, he never said a word to us. No apology, no acknowledgment. I only saw him in court once.

Following the accident, the city modernized the pedestrian crossing where the boys were hit. However, Wall questions the timing of these changes.

“The pedestrian crossing was then moved to another part of the street and flashing lights were turned on when children were crossing. I definitely wish it had been done sooner,” she said.

Both families believe Utah law favors drivers over pedestrians.

Wall explained: “Because he did not exceed the speed limit, although he did not stop and hit the boys as hard as he could, his statement failed to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk. That’s what he got for hitting two children – killing one and seriously injuring the other.”

While Walls’ organization has not filed a lawsuit against the driver, it is taking legal action against the city and county. Their message is clear: pedestrian crossings must be safer before tragedy happens, not after it.

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