TOOELE COUNTY, Utah, Oct. 23, 2023 (Gephardt Daily) — The Utah Highway Patrol has identified the victim of a fatal collision in Tooele County.
The man killed in the Saturday morning accident was Maksym Vechirko, 36, of Sacramento, Calif., the UHP statement says.
Vechirko was standing outside his van, which was parked in the emergency lane of Interstate 15, near mile marker 55. Vechirko’s father was inside the van, in the passenger seat, when his son was killed by a Hyundai. According to reports, the younger Vechirko had stepped outside the van to check its tires. The van was hauling a trailer.
The driver of the Hyundai was Shelby Kenneth Secrist, age 43. Secrist was booked into jail for investigation of:
- Negligently operating a vehicle resulting in death, a second-degree felony
- Driving under the influence, first offense in 10 years, a class B misdemeanor
- Possession of controlled substances marijuana/spice, a class B misdemeanor
- Use or possession of drug paraphernalia, a class B misdemeanor
- Unlawful sell/ship/transport of liquor from out of state, a class B misdemeanor
- Open container/drinking alcohol in vehicle, a class C misdemeanor
- Failure to stay in one lane, an infraction
A GoFundMe account stating it was established to help Vechirko’s family says he leaves behind a pregnant wife and seven children. The account also states Vechirko’s age is 35, and his first name in spelled Maksim.
As in every case, Gephardt Daily cannot guarantee funds donated will be used in the stated way. To check out the site for yourself, click here.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news that the Lord has taken away our beloved friend, father, and husband Maksim Vechirko, on Oct. 21, 2023, due to a car accident,” the account says, in part.
“Max, aged 35, was on a route delivering fruits as a means to provide for his family. He was an extraordinary person who loved his family and brought joy to many people around him and those who he met.
“Maksim leaves behind his beloved wife, Tanya, and their seven incredible children, and another one on the way. … Tanya, a devoted homemaker, with God’s help, has always been the unwavering anchor of their family, tirelessly ensuring that their family needs are met with love and dedication while Maksim was out on the road. However, the sudden loss of Maksim Vechirko has left this family emotionally shattered and facing daunting financial challenges. Their hearts ache with the pain of his absence, and they are confronted with the overwhelming responsibility of providing for the little kids down to the basic necessities.
“In these trying times, let us come together to provide the solace and support that his family needs. As a community, we hold the power to make a profound impact on their lives. We have launched this fundraiser to stand by Tanya and her children. Your contribution will not only provide immediate financial relief but also empower Tanya to navigate the lifelong journey of caring for her children with confidence and hope in our Father in Heaven.”
