Dear Friends of Bike and Powder magazines:
It is with great sadness that we must inform you of a tragic traffic incident involving members of the Bike and Powder family last night outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. Their rental SUV struck a bus head-on during a snowstorm on a small two- lane highway in a mountain pass, an event that has had fatal consequences.
The most serious news from the accident is simply incomprehensible and devastating. Mike Vihon, a long-time sales rep with Bike and Powder and beloved member of our team, was killed on impact. Our prayers and thoughts are with Mike's family at this time of untold grief.
The other passengers were all critically injured but are in Salt Lake City hospitals recovering. Kevin Back (Powder) sustained a serious head injury and is in stable-yet- critical condition. Doctors at the University of Utah's Medical Center are optimistic as he is able to move and respond.
Derek DeJonge (Bike) sustained multiple injuries including a broken arm, leg, pelvis and others. He is in stable-yet-critical condition at LDS Hospital. He has been able to speak with others since arriving at the hospital.
The fourth passenger was Steve Richardson, an employee of Oakley. It is our understanding that he has been conscious since the accident and, despite serious injuries, is responding well. Needless to say, we are all devastated by the news, and ask you to join us in keeping all four and their families and friends in your thoughts and prayers.
Feel free to contact any of us at the magazines directly should you have any more questions. The next several days will be quite harried, but we'll pass along more news as we receive it.
Thanks.
NORB
Norb Garrett VP Group Publisher/Editorial Director
:EDIT: Article care of www.biglines.com
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