Utah — A wrong-way driver has died after a crash on Interstate 15 near Tremonton on Tuesday
a gray Ford Focus was traveling south on the northbound side of the highway when it collided head-on with a Toyota 4Runner just before noon
UHP said the 77-year-old driver of the wrong-way vehicle
while the female driver of the 4Runner was transported to the hospital in critical condition
but with non-life-threatening injuries.A witness told UHP that they may have seen the driver of the Ford Focus make a U-turn to go southbound on the highway from the northbound on-ramp right before the crash
All northbound traffic on I-15 was diverted near the North 5200 West off-ramp before the highway was reopened at 2 p.m
UHP is still investigating to learn why the woman driving the Ford Focus made a U-turn ahead of the fatal collision
TREMONTON — The Utah Highway Patrol on Wednesday identified the woman killed in Tuesday's wrong-way crash on I-15 in Tremonton as Janet S
Tuesday near the 5200 West exit when a gray Ford Focus driven by Hawks that was traveling the wrong way struck a northbound white Toyota 4Runner head-on
and the driver of the 4Runner was taken to the hospital with critical injuries that were not expected to be life-threatening
All northbound I-15 lanes were closed for a couple of hours after the crash but were open shortly after 2 p.m
A witness told investigators he "thought he may have seen the Ford Focus make a U-turn to go southbound from the northbound on-ramp immediately before (the) collision," troopers said
but investigators are still trying to determine why the driver was traveling the wrong way
Utah (KUTV) — UPDATE: The Utah Department of Public Safety on Wednesday identified the victim in the crash as Janet Hawks
The original report from Tuesday continues below
A 77-year-old woman is dead and another driver suffered critical injuries after a wrong-way crash on I-15 in Box Elder County
The Utah Department of Public Safety reported the Tuesday crash happened around 11:45 a.m
when a gray Ford Focus was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes just north of Exit 377
A white Toyota 4Runner traveling northbound struck the Ford Focus head-on
The impact sent both vehicles into the median and against the cable barrier
A witness reported possibly seeing the Ford Focus make a U-turn from the northbound on-ramp to head southbound immediately before the collision
The 77-year-old woman behind the wheel of the Ford Focus died in the crash
The woman driving the 4Runner was transported to the local hospital she was ultimately transported to another hospital by medical helicopter
The nature and extent of those injuries were not shared as of the update time on this report
All northbound traffic was diverted at Exit 377 while emergency crews worked the scene
The Utah Department of Public Safety stated the investigation is ongoing as to why the driver allegedly made a U-turn on a freeway
DPS' statement didn't say whether investigators believed any sort of impairment
age or a medical incident possibly played a part in the crash
The wrong-way driver was not publicly identified
No additional information was shared as of this article's update time
Matthew Jacobson reported from Salt Lake City
TRAFFIC & ROADS
A gas line was severed Saturday afternoon during a single-vehicle crash
BY ALTON BARNHART
TREMONTON — A gas line was severed Saturday afternoon during a single-vehicle crash
the crash closed down Main Street from Tremonton Street to 300 E
Tremonton City Emergency Manager Nate Christensen said the single-vehicle crash went off the road and hit a gas line in front of a building
The spokesperson for Enbridge Jorgen Hoffling said the vehicle hit a riser pipe and were unable to shut off the gas
The TFD said they had to wait for Enbridge to come out and turn the gas off
Christensen said they were also able to ventilate a couple of businesses that were affected by the gas leak
Hoffling said several businesses were evacuated as a precaution
as the gas company works to repair the line
University Affairs
By Marcus Jensen | April 21
Utah State University Brigham City, USU Tremonton and USU Kaysville are proud to have celebrated the class of 2025 on Friday
April 18 as part of USU’s 138th Commencement
The class of 2025 consists of 434 individuals earning 11 undergraduate and four graduate certificates and 129 associate
“Tonight’s commencement is a great achievement for all our students,” said Dan Black
USU associate vice president for the Brigham City Region
“You graduates haven’t reached this milestone without the support of spouses
friends and associates who have helped make this day possible.”
The campuses celebrated graduates with a ceremony at Box Elder High School in Brigham City
Black welcomed the graduates and introduced the student speakers
chief executive officer & chief nursing officer at Brigham City Community Hospital
The first student speaker was Jenny Gillen Garrard
who is graduating with a master’s degree in social work
Garrard began her speech reflecting on her own journey to graduation and invited her fellow graduates to reflect on their own journeys
She then shared insights from her studies in social work about the true meaning of “happiness,” or leading a rich
She challenged her fellow graduates to find their happiness along the journey
“Happiness isn’t something to be obtained,” she said
“It's something we make space to receive
As you continue your journey—whether it’s in your career
or in your own personal growth—may you find peace not in the pursuit of happiness
but in embracing all that life has to offer
knowing that the real joy– that rich
and meaningful life– lies in the process itself.”
The second student speech was from Emily Davies
who received her bachelor’s degree in history
with a minor in both criminal justice and political science
Davies reflected on finding the educational pathway that best suited her
She then encouraged graduates to find the next step on their journey
isn’t our final chapter,” Davies said
“It’s a powerful pause—a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and to look ahead with purpose
Cottle briefly reflected on her own USU journey
and congratulated the graduating class on their achievement
She then offered counsel on what to do next
“My advice to you today is this: find that niche in your life that gives you fulfillment
and continue to learn and grow within that career,” she said
“This isn't just about finding a job; it's about discovering a calling
a passion that ignites your spirit and allows you to contribute your unique talents to the world.”
Cottle encouraged the graduates to continue to be learners
Smith then provided a short message and conferred upon the students their degrees
Once the graduates received their diplomas
president elect of the USU Alumni Advisory Board
Located in the center of Davis County, Utah State University Kaysville offers students the personalized attention and small class sizes of a small-town college with the resources of a large university. With degree options ranging from associate to doctorate degrees, plus technical education offerings, USU Kaysville offers programs that help fuel local economies and empower individuals and their communities. Learn more at kaysville.usu.edu
Comments and questions regarding this article may be directed to the contact person listed on this page
USU has announced a new Net Price Calculator — a modern
mobile-friendly platform that helps students and families understand what they may pay to attend college
The class of 2025 consists of 365 individuals earning 184 associate
UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Utah (KUTV) — The former Tremonton fire chief charged in a child sexual abuse material (CSAM) case has been accused of sexually abusing two family members
The accusations came out in a new civil lawsuit filed by 58-year-old Ned Brady Hansen's family
The lawsuit claims Hansen abused one family member since 2018
Family members are seeking damages in excess of $300,000
Hansen was charged in January with eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor
Hansen shared videos and photos of CSAM through a KIK account
Officers from the Brigham City Police Department contacted him at a Garland
and said he admitted to owning the KIK account
After Tremonton city officials learned about the charges
He was first sworn in as fire chief in 2023
Through their investigation into Hansen's CSAM activities and after looking at his messages to other users
they said he was sharing CSAM with then First District Judge Kevin Christensen
the two men were chatting in the KIK app about not only CSAM
exploiting and enticing children - includign children related to them
Court documents said the two men discussed having met "in real life to engage in sexual acts" each each other
Christensen was also the judge Hansen appeared before during a bond hearing
Despite law enforcement and prosecutors request to hold him without bail because of the risk to children
Christensen ordered him released from custody
"Christensen did not disclose that he had engaged in sexually charged chats regarding children with [Hansen]," charging documents state
"Law enforcement believes this fact materially affected the decision-making of Christensen at the time he released Hansen."
Kaigan Bigler and Megan Brugger contributed to this report
Utah (KUTV) — Tremonton's mayor expressed shock and sorrow in a new 2News interview on Sunday night after torrid child sex crimes accusations against the city's ousted fire chief
"We're very saddened by what has happened," said Mayor Mike Holmgren
who said the city will initiate steps to try to "heal" from the traumatic allegations
He said Tremonton will take a new look at how city employees are hired
"Even though the city has a rigorous vetting process
we want to make sure we strengthen it," Holmgren said
"If there are areas where we need to strengthen
2News has asked the city's police department how it vetted Hansen
and for first responders—-including police officers—-saying many of them were sworn in by Judge Kevin Christensen
who also faces charges including two counts of enticing a minor on the internet
"We want to make sure that we invite them (officers) into a counseling session
where they can share their concerns," said Holmgren
He also has a proclamation which will go before the city council this week to declare April as 'Sexual Abuse Against Children Awareness Month' in Tremonton
Holmgren said he intends the proclamation will not simply be passed and forgotten
but will aim at intensifying dialogue over child sex abuse within the community
--------------------------------------------------
OGDEN — Former Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Brady Hansen and former 1st District Justice Court Judge Kevin Christensen appeared in court on Thursday to hear their charges involving sexual crimes against children formally read
Both criminal cases have been moved from the Brigham City District Court to Ogden after judges in Brigham City recused themselves because of their professional connection with Christensen
never looking through his wire-framed glasses at the packed gallery and reporters lining the aisle with cameras pointed at him
wearing the faded blue and gray stripes of his Davis County Jail uniform
The hearing was a simple reading of information about the charges against Christensen
stemming from a November 2024 investigation
His charges: two counts of inciting a minor
three counts of attempted aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor
two counts of dealing in materials harmful to minors
Christensen spoke only to say he understood the charges and to thank the judge
each carry a sentencing range of one to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines
The three third-degree felonies each have a potential sentence of zero to five years in prison and $0 to $5,000 in fines
Christensen's next hearing was set for April 24
was charged with eight counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor
where his attorney asked for a hearing with his assigned judge on Thursday to address bail
who is being held at the Weber County Jail
looked attentive and wide-eyed across the courtroom
The former fire chief's defense team requested he be released on bail
"He's been a firefighter in the community," Hansen's defense attorney Shannon Demler said
he has a wife and two daughters in the area," Demler said
said they filed a warrant for arrest instead of a summons because of the "highly disturbing and dangerous sexual behavior" alleged in this case
Due to the evidence supporting the charges
Hansen was scheduled for another hearing on May 1
His family rushed out of the room in tears
Prosecutors asked the then-judge to keep him in custody
before official charges had been filed — a request Christensen denied
investigators had not connected the two men
A booking affidavit for Christensen said he did not disclose during that hearing that he and Hansen had sent "sexually charged chats" to each other — something the officers believed affected his decision to release Hansen
An investigation into Hansen's behavior began in November after law enforcement connected him to an account on an app that had distributed child sex abuse material
police discovered chats between Hansen and Christensen
where Hansen "expressed interest" in sexually abusing children and offered to "share" the children with Christensen
The documents said Christiansen offered to share pictures of children he knew with Hansen and that the two were involved in a sexual relationship together
Utah (KUTV) — Ned Brady Hansen was sworn in as Tremonton fire chief in 2023
when city council members put their confidence in him
and he expressed gratitude to them for the job
accused of eight counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor in court documents that are graphic and disturbing
He's also accused of being linked with Judge Kevin Christensen
Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren said Hansen was vetted for the position by the city's police department
MORE On Ned Brandy Hansen Child Sex Crimes Accusations:
In a text message to the mayor from Police Chief Dustin Cordova—-a text the mayor shared with 2News—-Cordova said police job applicants undergo "full criminal background checks," mandatory drug and alcohol tests—-and that police interview "people who may not like" a job candidate
examine a "full financial and credit report," and review social media accounts and potential mental health issues
Cordova said he implemented the background check process since his "arrival," which was before Hansen was hired as fire chief
2News has contacted Tremonton Police to see if Hansen was submitted to the rigors of that process
Utah (KUTV) — Former Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Brady Hansen made his initial court appearance in Utah's Second District court on multiple counts of child sexual exploitation
Monday's appearance was the second failed start in the case
in which Hansen faces eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor
after the judge rescheduled the court date to Wednesday and recused himself
This makes the fifth judge recused from the case
allowed Hansen to be let out on bond after his arrest
despite investigators' recommendation to hold him without bail due to the potential danger to community children
Christensen was later arrested after investigators found evidence tying him to Hansen's case
The Utah Attorney General's Office alleged in charging documents that investigators found evidence that Hansen had been communicating with another person in the case
and the two of them discussed in graphic details sexual acts they wanted to do to children if they "could get away with it." That other person was identified as Christensen
Hansen's case was reassigned to First District Court Judge Brandon Maynard
who signed an arrest warrant and ordered police to take the suspect back into custody
before the court process could begin again
due to Christensen being his former colleague
and Presiding judge Brian Cannell issued the following order recusing the remaining judges in the First District:
Hansen's initial hearing on March 12 was continued to Monday
where Judge Reuben Renstrom was set to make some of the first courtroom decisions in the case
the only decision officially made was to move the appearance to Wednesday after added his name to the list of recused judges
The case has been assigned to Second District Judge Joseph Bean
Hansen is scheduled to appear in court March 17 at 2 p.m
”I say that it breaks my heart,” said Sherilyn Tibbitts
"It makes me mad because they're supposed to be the leaders,” said Charlie Groberg
and said Christensen seemed an “upstanding” pillar of the community
“I think about the children,” said Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren
“and it’s hard for me to even comprehend (the allegations)."
Holmgren knows both men—Hansen accused of aggravated sexual exploitation of minors—and Christensen accused of enticing minors on the internet and dealing in harmful materials to kids
“You don’t even suspect anything,” Holmgren said
"And that's what happened here?" 2News asked
“That's what happened,” the mayor replied
Holmgren said Christensen would appear before the city council over his contract to be municipal judge
and he'd hold court in the city council chamber
Hansen was sworn in as Tremonton fire chief in 2023
and the mayor said he had been vetted for the job
An FBI agent said Hansen “discussed having met in real life to engage in sexual acts” with Christensen
The KUTV broadcast report misidentified Christensen as a district court judge instead of a justice court judge for Utah's First District
Utah (KUTV) — The attorney for fired Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Brady Hansen said Hansen will plead 'not guilty' to eight counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor
and that Hansen's family was "caught off guard" by the allegations against him
saying his client was arrested for the second time in weeks on Wednesday
"There were numerous agents with guns,” said Demler
Judge Kevin Christensen--whom Demler described as an accused "co-conspirator" in the child sex crimes case--decided not to hold Hansen in jail
“In terms of this link between him and Judge Christensen
what can you say about that?" 2News asked Demler
“That wasn't even alleged when they first arrested my client,” he replied
and he’s still waiting for more documentation from the Utah Attorney General’s Office
Christensen is charged with two counts of enticing a minor using the internet
two counts of dealing in materials harmful to a minor
three counts of attempted aggravated sexual exploitation
Demler said he’s had conversations with the ex-chief’s family
“It was something that no one expected or had any idea of
and I think it's caught them off guard for sure,” Demler said
“This took the family totally by surprise?"
no one was injured in an accident in which a semi truck crashed into the back of a farm tractor sitting on the shoulder of Interstate 15 in Tremonton
Watch LIVE below as traffic remains impacted following semi accident:
What made the no injury report even more amazing was that the semi cab actually separated from the truck following the impact
The Utah Highway Patrol said the tractor was partially blocking the right lane on I-15
affecting northbound traffic when the semi truck attempted to swerve
the truck hit the tractor and crashed off the highway
Traffic has been impacted by the accident as crews clean up the site located near mile marker 382 just west of the city
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Brandon Joseph Anderson returned to his Heavenly Father Sunday
He passed away peacefully in his sleep after his long battle with cancer
to Michael Joseph Anderson and MarVan Allred Keppler
Brandon married Sheryl Dejarnatt Anderson June 13
He owned Reptist Exotics and was the number one dealer for ten years
He was a rockhound and loved making jewelry
Brandon was loved and will be missed by many
He is survived by his wife Sheryl of Layton
Idaho; father Michael Anderson (Rhonda) of Tremonton
Utah; daughters Ashlie Hill of Louisiana and Aly Giles of Vernal
Utah; half-brothers Michael (Christi) of Corinne
Utah; half-sister Rochelle (Kasey) Smith of Roy
Utah; step sisters Trishelle Pitkin of Tremonton
He was preceded in death by his mother MarVan Allred Keppler
at Rudd Funeral Home- Tremonton (111 N 100 E- Tremonton)
A Celebration of Life/Birthday will be held on Sunday
at the Eagles in Brigham City from 1-4 P.M
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LOCAL NEWS
1:46 PM | Updated: Jan 21
BY MARY CULBERTSON AND DAN RASCON, KSL TV
SALT LAKE CITY — A fire in Tremonton claimed the home of a couple who spent their long careers in public service
A sentiment from their friends and family is now all they have left: it’s time for them to be on the receiving end of help
emergency fire crews were called to their home
the home was fully involved in the flames as heavy smoke billowed from the structure
Corrine Fire and Central Box Elder fire departments arrived in tow to help
crews worked tirelessly and were able to contain the fire,” GFD said
“The home sustained extensive damage
and units remained on scene for six hours to ensure the area was fully secure.”
“It’s just gone,” said Blair Jensen as he looked over the huge pile of blackened debris
“You can go talk to Weber County Sheriff’s Office and Davis County Sheriff’s Office
They all know him and love him,” Brian Jensen
Anytime there is someone on the side of the road (or needs help) you stop and help them.”
His wife also served her community in the medical field
dedicating her life to helping her patients
The fundraiser said the couple was left with “absolutely nothing,” including a few furry friends who were tragically lost in the flames
It further called on the community to help in their time of need
“Let’s be there for them as they have been there for our community,” the fundraiser said
“There was nothing but smoke everywhere,” Blair Jensen said
no other injuries were reported in the fire
Chief Brady Hansen with the Tremonton Fire Department told KSL TV the cause of the fire was still under investigation
these really cold temperatures do lead to auxiliary sources of heat that can cause fires,” Hansen said
“We don’t know that that was part of the cause with this fire
This was a difficult fire with lots of damage so the investigators are still piecing it together.”
It can all be rebuilt,” Blair Jensen said
but that’s not the final important thing
the important thing is we are okay.”
*KSL TV does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries
If you are considering a deposit to the account
you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk
1:08 PM | Updated: Apr 30
BY DANIEL WOODRUFF, KSL TV AND SIMONE SEIKALY
TREMONTON — A wrong-way driver on northbound Interstate 15 died on Tuesday after police said they crashed into another vehicle
a 77-year-old woman later identified as Janet Hawks
according to the Utah Department of Public Safety
and was driving southbound in the northbound lanes just north of exit 377 in Tremonton
— UDOT Traffic (@UDOTTRAFFIC) April 29, 2025
The DPS said another woman was driving a Toyota 4Runner in the northbound lanes and crashed head-on into the Ford Focus
“Both vehicles went into the median up against the cable barrier
The 4 Runner rolled onto its side,” the DPS said in a statement
the Focus driver may have “seen the Ford Focus make a U-turn to go southbound from the northbound on-ramp immediately before the collision.”
The 4Runner driver was hospitalized with “critical but non-life-threatening injuries,” the DPS said
The freeway was closed in Tremonton for about two hours and reopened around 2 p.m
OGDEN, Utah — The former chief of the Tremonton Fire Department appeared in an Ogden court on Monday as he and a Box Elder County judge now face multiple child sex crimes
Wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs on his wrists
Ned Brady Hansen appeared remotely during the brief hearing in the courtroom of Judge Reuben Renstrom
Hansen and Justice Court Judge Kevin Christensen have been linked together on multiple child sex crimes over the past week
with court records showing the two had an alleged sexual relationship with one another
while also sharing child pornography and discussing fantasies of abusing children together
Although Hansen and Christensen are currently not co-defendants
the chance that they could be connected in the future caused Judge Renstrom to recuse himself from the case
Former FBI agent explains complexity of judge
Monday's case was continued to a different court's schedule on Thursday where Hansen's attorney will attempt to get the former fire chief released on bail
the only time Hansen spoke was to say his name
it was Christensen who released his friend on bail despite the alleged risk he possibly posed to children
'So despicable;' Tremonton officials reeling after child sex abuse arrests of judge
Hansen was arrested on March 6 and resigned from his position a week later
to James Garnet Abel and Verla Beth Holman
He spent his early years in Utah County before the family moved to the Elwood and Tremonton area
Jim was a part of the first graduating class of Bear River Junior High
He graduated from Bear River High School where he participated in many activities and made lifelong friends
While in high school he worked for Doug Allred at the Beeline Gas Station in Elwood next to what is now JC’s Diner
After high school he attended both Utah State and Weber State
They welcomed two daughters into their family: Nannette and Suzanne
he answered that his girls got him the perfect boys
He always considered them and their families to be friends and family and has stayed in touch with them
Jim and Carolyn bought what is now known as JC’s Diner
Jim owned and operated this small country diner for over 32 years
It is here that Jim made lifelong friends with travelers
many of which he considered adopted family
Jim married Karey and added her five children to the mix: Matt
They all became family and as their families have grown
Throughout Jim’s life he has been actively involved in school activities
the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse
Jim also worked at Thiokol for 34 years in the information technology area
Jim was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2012 and given 2-6 months life expectancy
He chose to work with the oncology department at the Huntsman Center and participate in an experimental drug trial
That drug has since been proven effective and is now being used to treat lung and other forms of cancer
He considered himself very blessed and was grateful for the extra time the treatment provided
He loved his oncology team from Huntsman Center
Jim is preceded in death by his parents James and Verla; brothers Carlos and Alan; father-in-law Mark Michie and one great granddaughter Oakley
Jim leaves behind his daughters Nan and Suz; his wife Karey; her children; mother-in-law Kaye Michie; brothers Ron and Bob Miller
Mary and Carol Dawn; brothers-in-law Mick and Marshall Michie and sister-in-law Kris Bahr
He has 19 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren and many cousins
Dr Wallace Akerley and Austin Call for their friendship and care
and prior to the service from 10-11:30 A.M
All services will be held at the Tremonton South Stake Center (1150 S Tremont St
Interment will take place in the Riverview Cemetery
The service will be livestreamed and can be found below
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the missionary fund through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT PAN THE CROWD AND THE CAMERA IS FIXED UPON THE PULPIT
WE WILL TRY AND LIVESTREAM THE FUNERAL SERVICE
A RECORDING WILL BE UPLOADED WITHIN 24-48 HOURS AFTER THE SERVICE
TREMONTON, Utah — Like those who live in and around the city, Tremonton city leaders are reeling after two prominent men in the community were arrested on child sexual abuse charges
Residents have previously shared with FOX 13 News how they feel their trust had been violated following the arrests of Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Hansen and Judge Kevin Christensen
who allegedly shared child pornography and discussed fantasies of abusing children
Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren understands why people are upset
'I am not even sure if I dare let my children out
Can I even let my children out?' This is the fear some people have," Holmgren shared
Hansen and Christensen are both currently in jail for their alleged crimes against children
some of them may not even be old enough to even understand they’ve been victimized
and that’s what's horrible about all this," the mayor added
Holmgren himself was shocked to learn about the charges the men face
but said Hansen was thoroughly vetted by the police department before he was hired in 2023
The city is now looking at ways to improve the process
"This is not something that they talk about with their coworkers
and so it's pretty hard to ferret this stuff out
but we will do our very best and this is something that we will not tolerate in our community again," Holmgren said
share anger over officials jailed on child sex abuse charges:
Tremonton has appointed two interim fire chiefs to run the department
while city leaders search for the next permanent fire chief
Holmgren now hopes everyone in the small town can lean on each other as they try to move forward
"The healing is what I want to see," he said
5:34 PM | Updated: Mar 14
BY MICHAEL HOUCK AND DEBBIE WORTHEN, KSL TV
SALT LAKE CITY — Two Box Elder County officials are being accused of sexually enticing minors while being in their own relationship
was charged with eight first-degree felony counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor in the 1st District Court
the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received a tip that an account on the internet-based chatting application KIK was sharing videos and images of child sex abuse material on the platform
This investigation led to Hansen’s arrest in January
The scene included SWAT officers with guns drawn
I would say 15-20 police officers in full SWAT gear,” Hansen’s neighbor said to KSL TV’s Debbie Worthen
A woman caught the activity on her cell phone from next door
“I was home alone with my dog.”
he admitted to police that he saved the videos on his phone and owned the account associated with the tip
“The Defendant stated he had a pornography addiction and that over the previous several years he had developed tastes for (girls),” court documents stated
While searching Hansen’s electronic devices
investigators found multiple chats with another person
which was discovered to be Kevin Robert Christensen
Hansen and Christensen spoke about how they could sexually abuse children
including extended family members of one of the men
the two discussed meeting up in person and engaged in a sexual relationship
Christensen was the judge who preceded Hansen’s bail and released him despite law enforcement’s request to hold Hansen without bail
“Christensen did not disclose that he had engaged in sexually charged chats regarding children with defendant Hansen and law enforcement believes that this fact materially affected the decision making of Christensen at the time he released Hansen,” court documents stated
this prompted an investigation into Christensen
and investigators discovered the two’s relationship
On Monday, Christensen was also charged in the 1st District Court with two counts of enticing a minor using the internet
one second-degree felony and one third-degree felony
A Spokesperson for Utah State Courts said Friday that Christensen had resigned on March 10
who need a break or who feel like they need counseling or training can reach out to one of the following agencies:
3:58 PM | Updated: Jan 29
BY MICHAEL HOUCK
TREMONTON — An investigation into a person sharing child sex abuse material resulted in the arrest of the Tremonton fire chief
Crystal Beck with the Brigham City Police Department confirmed with KSL that Ned Brady Hansen
was arrested on Monday on suspicion of eight second-degree felony charges of sexual exploitation of a minor
the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received a tip from a social media platform that an account was sharing videos and images of child sex abuse material on the platform
The user information included an email address and phone number connected to Hansen’s home
After serving a warrant to find the account’s IP address
authorities found that it belonged to Hansen’s Garland
Brigham City police issued a search warrant on Hansen’s home and took him into custody
he admitted to police that he had the videos saved on his phone and owned the account associated with the tip
“He was unsure if he had shared the videos with other users or received them from other users
but sharing content was something that he engaged in,” the affidavit stated
Battalion Chief Chris Scothern with Tremonton fire told KSL that the department could not comment on the investigation
Tremonton city manager Bill Cobabe confirmed that Hansen was terminated from his position after the city learned of his arrest
Utah (KUTV) — Charges have been filed against Tremonton's fire chief for eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor
was reportedly found to have shared videos and photos of child sex abuse material through a Kik cyber tip report
When Brigham City Police contacted Hansen at a Garland address
he admitted to being the owner of the Kik account and possessing the CSAM found under his account
Police said Hansen was "unsure if he had shared the videos with other users or received them from other users
but sharing content was something that he engaged in."
Each of the eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor are attributed to each file Hansen is accused of sharing
Tremonton City Manager Bill Cobabe confirmed Hansen was let go from his fire chief position on Monday
Utah — The fire chief of the Tremonton Fire Department has been arrested on multiple charges after an investigation showed he allegedly shared videos and photos containing child pornography
was taken into custody Monday by Brigham City police officers who had served a search warrant at the chief's home
Arrest documents showed the investigation into Hansen began in November when the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received a tip that an online account was sharing child sex abuse material involving a girl between the ages of 10 and 12 years old
An email address associated with the account connected officials to Hansen
and a warrant served to Google and Comcast later turned up his phone number and IP address
Hansen's date of birth also coincided with the last digits of his account name for the platform where he allegedly shared the child pornography
As the search was performed at Hansen's home
he admitted to possessing the videos and that they were saved on his phone
Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren said Hansen is no longer employed with the city as fire chief
Box Elder County — The Tremonton fire chief was arrested Monday and accused of sharing photos and videos depicting child sexual abuse material
was booked into the Box Elder County Jail for investigation of eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor
Brigham City police said they executed a search warrant at Hansen's home about 7 a.m
a tip was received about someone sharing videos and images on the Kik app that contained child sex abuse material
"Detectives knocked on the door and met with the suspect
was the only individual inside the home at the time," Brigham City police detective Crystal Beck said in a statement
Beck confirmed that Hansen is the current Tremonton fire chief
The videos and photos consisted of explicit photos of a 10- to 12-year-old female
which adds that Hansen "admitted to having possessed the videos identified ..
"These videos had been saved on his phone
He was unsure if he had shared the videos with other users or received them from other users
but sharing content was something that he engaged in," the affidavit alleges
Several phones and tablets were seized for processing
Hansen started his career in South Ogden and took a position as assistant chief in Logan in 2000, according to the Logan website. Hansen was the Jackson Hole fire/EMS chief from 2017 to September 2022, when he retired and moved back to Logan, the Jackson Hole News and Guide reported
The fire chief was hired by Tremonton in August 2023
No formal charges have been filed in the case
Hansen was being held in jail on $50,000 bail
passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on December 6
after a 1½-year battle with thyroid cancer
Joan graduated from Bear River High School
where she was involved in the Pep Club and Choir
Joan started in the mail room and steadily advanced through the ranks
and sense of humor touched the lives of everyone around her
Golfing with the ladies at Skyway Golf and with the ladies of the St
Many lifelong friendships began on the golf course
Sewing and creating masterpieces was of utmost importance to Joan
She cherished the time in her “She Shed,” creating one-of-a-kind handmade items that she loved to gift to family and friends
She had perfected Grandma Dorothy’s cinnamon rolls
as well as her own dinner rolls that she loved to bake
She loved to travel with her family and friends
Joan was a member of the Skyway Ladies Golf Association
where she served as President and in other various positions
She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Joan loved spending time with her family at their property in Island Park and Lava Ranches
where many cherished memories were made with her kids and grandkids
and her brothers-in-law Wayne Hunt and Lyle Evans
She is survived by her best friend and beloved husband
All services will be held at the Bothwell Church (10350 W 11600 N
Interment will take place at the Bothwell Cemetery
The service will be live-streamed and can be accessed below
In Lieu of flowers please donate to the LDS missionary fund.
Utah to Harvey Jesse Harris and Amelia Mary Hubsmith Harris
She was welcomed into the world by her two older siblings
where she attended school through the 8th grade
with the special privilege of having her Aunt Edith as one of her teachers
She then went on to Bear River High School for three years before finishing her senior year at Malad High School
she attended one year of college at BYU in Provo
followed her to Provo even though she had told him not to
His tenacity soon paid off and she married Ronald Skidmore on September 19
They started their married life living in Logan
Utah where she attended USU studying Elementary Education
A short time later Mom and Dad moved back to the Curlew Valley
where they continued to grow their family adding Tammy
she developed a love for English and diagramming sentences
she became fascinated by historical events
particularly genealogy and the history of the pioneers
She dedicated countless hours to researching and writing a history of the Curlew Valley
cleaning the Stone Elementary School and was custodian for the Curlew Ward for 17 years
She also enjoyed volunteering at the Snowville School where she assisted the students with their studies
She spent the next 58 years living in Stone and the last six years she called Tremonton
Renelle was a lover of simple things including plain potato chips
black licorice (especially Wiley Wallaby licorice beans)
crossword puzzles and taking a little "rest" also known as a well-earned nap
She considered raising her five children to be her greatest accomplishment and found joy in watching them grow
excel in school and show respect to others.
Her kids were her pride and joy until the grandkids came along
and then she found an all-new pride and joy
She was an avid supporter of her grandkids and enjoyed watching them participate in various activities and was proud of their accomplishments
She was a fantastic grandmother and was always willing to entertain the grandkids when asked
she would always ask if there was anything she could fix you to eat
She created a concoction of marshmallows and chocolate chips for the grandkids to cook on a little green turtle stove
and a beautiful soul willing to help anyone.
She was a sentimental collector and if you wrote her a letter or card of any kind
she made it a point to always help anyone with whatever she could even when she had little to spare
Her selfless nature was a testament to her belief that it was more blessed to give than to receive
She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she served in several callings but loved being a primary president and primary teacher
She also served as a nursery leader in her 70s and found great fulfillment in that role
Renelle enjoyed serving in the Logan and Brigham temples
She will be remembered for her contagious smile
She will be fiercely missed by her family and all who were lucky enough to know her
Renelle is survived by her husband of 66 years
Ronald Skidmore; her children: RonDell (Diane)
and Rhonda (Tod) Daniels; 12 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and one brother
She was preceded in death by her son Randy
A special thanks to Atlas Home Health and Hospice especially Savana and Brooke for their care and support the past few weeks
and prior to the service from 10-10:45 A.M
Interment to follow in the Snowville Cemetery
All services will be held at Rudd Funeral Home- Tremonton (111 N 100 E- Tremonton)
The services will be livestreamed and can be accessed below
Utah (KUTV) — A car crashed into a natural gas line
The Tremonton Fire Department said surrounding businesses were evacuated and the area was isolated until the gas company was able to plug the line
"Crews will be on scene for a while finishing the repairs
but Main Street is back open," the fire department said
Heaven not only got one of the good ones..it got one of the BEST ones
went to Heaven after a most courageous battle with cancer at age 70
He battled like a warrior but couldn’t win the fight
Dave (or Zeke to his brothers) was born on May 28
He was raised on the family dairy farm in Fielding
where he worked alongside his brothers and sisters raising sheep
horses for working in the fields and milking cows
Dave started playing basketball in the 8th grade and went on to play throughout high school as well as on many city and church leagues well into his 50’s
with many players much younger than he was
At one point he played as many as six games in one week
He was also the FFA President while in high school
Dave worked on the family farm for many years putting in long hours milking cows
irrigating and harvesting crops and many long hot hours hauling hay
It is here he developed his unique work ethic that he carried with him everywhere he went
Dave has been called the hardest working man by anyone who knew him
There was never a job he wouldn’t do and do it until it was finished
From this marriage he had five sons which he considered his greatest accomplishment
He said he always wanted his own basketball team..and he got it
He farmed for several years after getting married
then got a job at the U&I sugar factory before starting his career at Thiokol Chemical Corporation in Promontory
He retired from there in 2021 after 42 years of service
Dave worked in several different production areas on many different aspects of the Space Shuttle booster motors both in the manufacturing and quality departments before becoming a manager in the finance world
He was a self-taught man and had to learn how to turn on a computer when he got that job and went from there to create very complicated spreadsheets with thousands of line items and managed million-dollar budgets
Dave married Rocky (Roxanne) Hess on March 2
They enjoyed spending time at their cabin in Bear Lake and his favorite thing was feeding all the animals that wondered into the yard and taking long rides around the lake and in the mountains in their Ranger
golfing and watching their grandkids play in sports and dance competitions
Dave was an avid golfer and enjoyed many games played with his brothers
He won many tournaments and usually gave his winnings away to whomever he played with
Dutch oven cooking and was a master gardener
There wasn’t anything Dave couldn’t grow
He always had a project going or was thinking of the next one
Dave was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings over the years
Nothing made him happier than serving the Lord in whatever capacity he was called to
He gave his all in whatever he was asked to do
Rocky (Roxanne) Hansen Hess; five sons: Shawn
Justin (Kelsie); stepdaughters: Jamie Eyre (Dave Richards)
Brook Whitaker and a stepson Colt Whitaker (Mandy); 22 grandchildren and one great-grandson
Vaughn (Tonya) and Barry (Joelle); sisters Judy Richards and Mary (Mike) Perry and Becky (Jeff) Ewing; sisters-in-law Jane Hess and Marlene Hess
at Rudd Funeral Home- Tremonton (111 N 100 E- Tremonton) and prior to the service on Friday at the church from 9-10:30 A.M
Burial will be in the Bear River City Cemetery
A Utah community is trying to come to grips with the arrests of the fire chief and a judge
Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Hansen and Judge Kevin Christensen remain incarcerated after the were charged with child sex abuse, Fox13 reported
Police determined duting their probe that the men spoke about fantasies of abusing children as well as shared child pornography
some of them may not even be old enough to even understand they’ve been victimized
and that’s what's horrible about all this
This is what makes this so despicable," Mayor Lyle Holmgren told reporters.
The mayor said Hansen was vetted by police before being hired as the department's chief in 2023.
He has appointed two fire officers to be interim chiefs
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com
She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company
Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976
Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum
She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association
She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council
Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society
she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post
affectionately known as "Pickles," passed away peacefully on February 27
James spent his entire life in the valley he cherished
James was a man of many passions; he delighted in 4-wheeling
and found joy in power napping anywhere he could lay his head down
His friendly demeanor and willingness to share stories made him a beloved figure in the community
and he always had time to lend an ear or reminisce about fond memories
James grew up immersed in agricultural life
working the land and cherishing every moment spent in the dirt
His professional journey included time at Thiokol
but his later years were spent assisting on the Hansen farm
He married Mary Ann Kay in the Deweyville Chapel
leaving a cherished legacy in the hearts of those who knew her
James was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
serving within the Tremonton 12th Ward and the Riverview Ward
where he contributed his time and faith to the community
including his brother Robert and sister-in-law Annette; his son Abraham and his wife Libby; daughter Tammy Kay; stepson Carl and his wife Tori McBride; stepdaughter Shantell and her husband Jim; as well as 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren
all of whom will miss his warmth and wisdom dearly
James was preceded in death by his parents
Jean and Glen Kay; his sibling Betty McLaughlin; his wife Mary Kay; and his cherished dog
He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law
with whom he enjoyed daily gossip conversations
Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday
all services will be at the Deweyville Chapel located at 10750 N 3000 W
Interment will follow immediately after the service at the Elwood Cemetery
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the condolences received and would like to thank Rudd Funeral Home
as well as the Tremonton Fire and Police Departments
for their compassion and support during this difficult time
TREMONTON, Utah — The Tremonton community remains in shock, as well as angry and concerned, after the arrests of two high-profile officials on child sex abuse charges
we try to keep an eye out for things that are going wrong and take care of each other,” explained Tremonton resident Jessica Flinn
Melissa Alvey explained how the town at the center of the horrendous allegations is known for its Mayberry feel
When something happens like the arrest of Tremonton Fire Chief Ned Hansen and Box Elder County Judge Kevin Christensen
the town hopes that they can work through it together as both men remain in police custody in separate jails
“A lot of anger is circling and people are very upset about what’s been going on,” admitted Flinn
“You hear about people abusing their power and authority
but you kind of hope that it’s exaggerated," added Alvey
Hansen and Christensen have been charged with offenses involving child sexual abuse
While Alvey now wonders who else may be involved
Flinn is concerned that others higher up are involved
The judge assigned to the case has recused himself
citing a rule that says judges must disqualify themselves if there's a reasonable chance someone could question their impartiality
Several calls throughout Weber and Box Elder County were unanswered
but Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren said what allegedly occurred has been a shock for the entire community and he wants trust to be restored
Alvey says she and her friends are sick over what has happened
“I just definitely hope that the community leans on each other versus being afraid of each other,” she said
“Just keep trusting that there is still some good in the world.”