Truck driver hit by man fleeing police remains in critical condition

A truck driver and reserve police officer from Rigby, Idaho, who was hit head-on by a man fleeing police back on July 26 remains in critical condition at the University of Utah Burn Center.

William “Bill” Gray was caught in the middle of a high-speed chase and accident that occurred northbound on U.S. Highway 89 near Wellsville, Utah, a few miles southwest of Logan, Utah.
The explosive impact of the two trucks instantly engulfed Bill’s semi-truck in flames. He was able to stop and exit his truck, and police were able to put out the flames on his body. Bill was rushed by ambulance to Logan Regional Hospital and later life-flighted to the University of Utah Burn Center.

Doctors said 46 percent of his body was severely burned, and he had a 22 percent chance of living.

As of today, September 8, Bill remains in critical condition. He has already received a number of procedures to remove burned skin, 3 skin grafts and pre-grafting procedures on his legs, stomach and chest. His hands are also severely burned and will need surgeries and extensive therapy as he recovers. He is also fighting off infections in the burns and pneumonia in his lungs.

Despite the situation, Bill’s wife, April Gray, wants the other driver’s family to know she is saddened for their loss.

“I’m truly sorry they are hurting and that they have lost their son,” said April. “I wish them well as they are mourning and healing.”

Shortly after Bill arrived at the burn center, Salt Lake City police arrived to conduct a blood draw to test for illicit substances in his blood. University hospital nurse Alex Wubbels refused to draw the blood, quoting hospital policy. She was arrested on the spot but later released without charges.
In response to this situation, April said, “I’m glad she [nurse Wubbles] was protecting my husband and I love our police community. I’m deeply grateful to the Logan police officers who helped Bill on the scene of the accident, as well as all the medical staff who have treated him since then. They have all been wonderful.”

April is taking time off work to be at her husband’s side as he continues to fight for his life in Salt Lake City.

“It’s been up and down,” she said but is trying to stay positive and hopeful.

April thanks everyone who has donated to help pay for the mounting, unexpected medical and travel expenses, and to all those who are praying for Bill’s recovery.

If you’d like to help Bill and April out, two donation accounts have been set up:

In person, by mail, or via bill pay:

Zion’s Bank-William Gray Fund

149 W. Main Street, Rexburg, ID 83440

(208) 356-7688

Online: GoFundMe “Bill Gray Accident Fund” found HERE.

Official updates on Bill’s condition will continue to be made on the GoFundMe page.