A fatal car crash in Salt Lake City over the Thanksgiving weekend has left two young lives — Anneka Wilson and her boyfriend Leo Shepherd — tragically cut short. In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe titled “Support for Anneka Wilson’s Family” has been created to help cover memorial and funeral expenses and to support both families as they cope with overwhelming loss.
What Happened
According to the Utah Highway Patrol, Wilson and Shepherd were traveling northbound on Interstate 15 when their vehicle was struck head-on by a wrong-way driver. The crash occurred near 1900 South in what is being investigated as a suspected DUI incident. Emergency responders reported that their car was engulfed in flames upon impact. Both Wilson and Shepherd were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities arrested the driver, identified as a 21-year-old man, on suspicion of driving under the influence. The horrific crash adds another tragic case to growing concerns about wrong-way and DUI-related collisions on busy highways.
Remembering Anneka and Leo
Anneka Wilson was described by family and friends as a vibrant young woman full of warmth and compassion. The GoFundMe campaign remembers her fondly: she loved turquoise jewelry, had a passion for art, and embraced life with energy and kindness. She worked in elder care — often sharing videos of herself comforting and laughing with residents — and loved spending time outdoors with her dog, Jax. (GoFundMe)
Leo Shepherd is similarly memorialized as a gentle, big-hearted young man who found joy in simple pleasures: working with his hands, tending to trucks and farm tasks, hunting with family, and cherishing his role as a devoted uncle. The fundraiser organizers described him as “one of the truly good ones,” whose kindness and laughter left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
The personal testimonies reflect deep grief. Wilson’s brother wrote that she was “the best sister you could ask for,” beloved by everyone she met. Shepherd’s family echoed the sentiment, mourning a generous soul taken far too soon.
Why the Fundraiser Matters
In addition to the emotional devastation, the affected families now face mounting financial burdens. Funeral costs, memorial expenses, and the support required during this time of grief add up quickly. The GoFundMe campaign aims to ease that burden, offering a tangible way for community members and strangers alike to show solidarity and compassion.
At present, the campaign has raised over $14,000 toward its $16,000 goal. Every donation, no matter how small, is described as a meaningful contribution to helping the families manage the aftermath of this heartbreaking car crash.
A Reminder of the Costs of Reckless Driving
This tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating toll car crashes can exact — especially when factors like impaired or wrong-way driving are involved. The loss of two young lives to what investigators say was a DUI wrong-way crash underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and preventive measures on the roads.
As the community mourns, the fundraiser offers a way for people to contribute — helping to lighten the financial load and honoring the lives of Anneka Wilson and Leo Shepherd.
If you’d like to help, you can view or contribute to the fundraiser here: Support for Anneka Wilson’s Family.
For All NFL and Football Content:
Follow me on X (formerly Twitter) at @mcquadewarnold. Also, do not forget to follow us at On Twitter for even more great football content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency news – college football, and more, click here!
Car Crash Car Crash Car Crash Car Crash
Leave a Comment
Share your thoughts and join the discussion