In a tragic incident that has left the Sandy community in mourning, Josh Perry, a beloved father and friend, was killed last Thursday night while out for his routine run. Known for his motivational spirit and dedication to his family, Perry's passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and calls for enhanced pedestrian safety measures in the area. A.J. Medina, a close friend of Perry's, recounted their frequent conversations, noting how Perry was always a source of encouragement. "You’re not allowed to give up. You’re not allowed to quit. You’re not allowed to have a bad day," Medina recalled, quoting the motivational speaker David Goggins, a mantra that Perry often shared. Danny Underwood, another close friend and hunting buddy, expressed his shock at the sudden loss, stating, "I think I talked to him more than anybody. He was probably one of my closest friends." Underwood noted the unusual silence after he failed to receive his customary call from Perry last Friday. "It clicked right there. I had always heard from him by then," he said, a somber realization of the loss that had occurred. According to the Sandy Police Department, Perry was struck by a vehicle while in a crosswalk near Alta High School during his evening run, a routine he maintained for his health and fitness. The driver of the vehicle, reported to have been impaired at the time of the accident, was arrested shortly thereafter. Underwood expressed disbelief at the danger posed by impaired driving, stating, "To drive drunk is just unbelievable in this day and age. There’s nothing more dangerous than your vehicle, because you’re going to be driving a multi-thousand-pound missile." Perry's friends shared fond memories that highlighted his love for his family. Medina described him as an “amazing father,” who frequently talked about his children and their activities. "Almost every night, he had one sport that he was taking the kids to," Medina said, a testament to Perry's commitment to being an involved and supportive parent. One of the last messages Perry sent to Medina was a playful text that read “olive juice,” a lighthearted way to say “I love you.” "We’d always say longtime love," Medina shared, illustrating the deep bond of friendship they shared. In the aftermath of Perry's untimely death, friends and family have come together to support his wife, Caress, and their two children. A GoFundMe page was established to assist the family during this difficult time, with Underwood urging the community to contribute. "Anybody that can do anything when it comes to the GoFundMe, that is going to help out his wife and his two beautiful children so much," he said. The fundraiser reflects the community's willingness to rally around those in need following a devastating loss. Perry's legacy as a devoted father, loyal friend, and motivational figure is now on the minds of those who knew him. His friends are left to cherish the memories they created together, while advocating for safer conditions for pedestrians in Sandy. The accident has ignited discussions about the urgent need for improvements to crosswalk safety and heightened awareness of impaired driving consequences. As the community continues to mourn, Perry's friends hope to honor his memory by promoting the positive impact he had on their lives and the lives of his children. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.