Tragic Intersection Crash in St. George: Bicyclist on Life Support, Driver Arrested
Overview of the Incident
In a heart-wrenching incident on December 20, 2025, a bicyclist was critically injured in a collision with a vehicle at the busy intersection of 1300 West and Sunset Boulevard in St. George, Utah. The crash occurred shortly after 7 p.m., leaving the bicyclist hospitalized and placed on life support with no brain activity, as reported in court documents.
Details of the Arrest
The driver involved in the crash, 26-year-old Lacie Nikole Winder, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of marijuana. Winder, who was working as a pizza delivery driver at the time, failed field sobriety tests administered by police. Despite possessing a valid medical marijuana card, she admitted to using cannabis purchased in Nevada, which is illegal under Utah law, as marijuana must be obtained from state-licensed pharmacies.
Changing Stories and Impairment Evidence
Winder’s account of her marijuana use varied during police questioning, initially claiming she had not consumed any that day, only to later confess to using it at her boyfriend’s home. This inconsistency raised concerns about her state of mind at the time of the crash. An expert evaluation confirmed that she was impaired while driving, leading to her arrest and subsequent booking into the Washington County Jail.
Understanding Utah’s Cannabis Laws
Utah’s strict cannabis regulations were highlighted in this incident. Although medical cannabis is legal, out-of-state purchases violate the law. The implications of driving under the influence of cannabis can be severe, including potential felony charges when serious injuries occur, as seen in this case. For those interested in learning more about Utah’s marijuana laws, it’s essential to understand the nuances to avoid legal complications.
Safety and Awareness in St. George
With St. George being a popular destination for cyclists due to its picturesque routes, the need for bicycle safety has never been more critical. The intersection where the crash occurred is known for heavy traffic, and local initiatives are in place to enhance safety for cyclists. These initiatives include:
- Promoting helmet use and awareness
- Improving bike lanes and signage
- Running community awareness campaigns on road safety
Sadly, bike-vehicle collisions have been on the rise in the area, prompting city officials and local organizations to ramp up their efforts to protect cyclists. You can find more about these initiatives through the St. George Police Department’s traffic safety page.
Broader Implications of Impaired Driving
The issue of impaired driving is a pressing concern in Utah. With the legalization of cannabis, the number of DUI arrests related to marijuana has increased. Washington County, due to its proximity to Nevada, has seen a particularly high rate of such incidents. Public awareness campaigns emphasize a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of any substances.
Final Thoughts
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists. As residents and visitors navigate St. George, let’s all commit to safer roads and responsible choices.
