Family urges people to wear seat belts after mother and 3-year-old die in crash on US Highway 40

HEBER – A Utah family said they learned a tragic lesson about seat belts after a mother and her 3-year-old child were killed in a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 40 on Tuesday.

According to the Utah Highway Patrol, Norma Jones and three-year-old Rosie Jones died after their Volkswagen Passat collided head-on with a Dodge Ram near milepost 36. According to UHP, Rosie was ejected and it is still unclear whether Norma was wearing a seatbelt.

Norma's two other children in the car, 6-year-old Anthony and 11-year-old Freddie, survived the accident. UHP initially reported that no one was restrained in the car, but the department believes Freddie was wearing a seatbelt.

“When I saw Freddie standing here with us today, I realized why he should buckle up. It’s a miracle that two of our four are with us today,” said Fred Jones, Norma Jones’ husband. “What I can say to anyone who drives a vehicle or has a family and loved ones like me and everyone: My family is here. I would put on the seatbelt.”

Norma Jones and three-year-old Rosie Jones, who died in a crash on US 40 on October 1, 2024. (Jones family)

The family describes Norma Jones as a devoted mother and wife. In fact, they said she was on her way to order food from the Heber Food Bank when she was killed.

“The best mother in the world. I took care of you kids,” said Norma Garcia, Norma Jones’ mother.

Norma helps children at a birthday party by serving them ice cream. (Jones family)

According to his father, Anthony suffered a broken back, ribs and a dislocated hip. He was released from surgery Thursday evening and is said to be recovering. Freddie was devastated but was present on KSL TV and spoke to the family.

A family friend has set up a GoFundMe* to help the family as Fred Jones now has to care for his five remaining children.

Fred with his eldest son Freddie in front of the hospital. (KSL TV)

*KSL TV does not guarantee that the money deposited into the account will be used for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering making a deposit into the Account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.