crime

Lehi Man Hospitalized After Bravery in Hobby Shop Theft Attempt

A Lehi employee is hospitalized after confronting thieves at a hobby shop, prompting community support and a police investigation.

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In a harrowing incident at A Mad Man's Hobby shop in Lehi, Utah, a local employee is recovering in the hospital after being seriously injured while attempting to intervene in a theft. Mark Willson, known for his friendly demeanor and dedication to customer service, suffered severe injuries after he confronted two suspects who allegedly stole a valuable remote-controlled car kit worth approximately $1,000. As police continue their search for the suspects, Willson's family and the community rally around him during this difficult time. According to Teresa Mott, the owner of A Mad Man's Hobby, Willson had just finished assisting a customer when two individuals, described as young adults, entered the store. Initially, they made a small purchase, leading Mott to believe their visit was benign. However, moments later, the female suspect exited the store, holding the door for her accomplice, who then grabbed the expensive car kit and made a dash for it. Mott alerted Willson, who immediately sprang into action, following the suspects outside in a bid to reclaim the stolen item. The suspects' vehicle, described as a black truck, was reportedly parked outside, flanked by another car. Willson attempted to confront the suspects by telling them to return to the store or return the stolen property. Shellie Vincent, Willson's stepdaughter, recounted the terrifying moment when Willson grabbed onto the tailgate of the truck to avoid being crushed between the two vehicles as they sped off. "He saw backup lights and jumped on the tailgate. They took off with him on the truck," Vincent explained. As the truck accelerated, Willson tried to dismount, but the vehicle surged forward, leading to a tragic incident where his legs were caught in the wheel well. Vincent described the aftermath, stating, "It makes me sick. I don't know how anyone could do that," highlighting the gravity of the situation and the reckless behavior of the suspects. Witnesses to the incident quickly reacted, with Mott searching frantically down the road for Willson. After a brief period, she was informed by a bystander that he was lying injured about 400 yards away. Upon reaching him, Mott found Willson attempting to sit up, only to discover that his legs were severely injured and twisted. Since that fateful day, Willson has been hospitalized, facing multiple surgeries and a long recovery ahead. His family has reported that he suffered two broken legs, a broken arm, and facial injuries, including a broken nose and damages to his facial bones. As his recovery journey begins, Mott expressed her deep concern for Willson, saying, "I miss him terribly and wish him the best of luck. It doesn't feel the same here without him." The community has come together to support Willson and his family during this challenging time. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with his medical expenses as he navigates through both physical and financial recovery. The campaign has garnered significant attention, reflecting the community's solidarity and willingness to help one of their own. Lehi Police are actively investigating the incident and have appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the suspects. Authorities are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area to come forward. As the investigation continues, Willson's family hopes that the suspects will turn themselves in, emphasizing that no item is worth the risk of endangering a life. As the community rallies around Willson, his bravery in the face of danger serves as a reminder of the risks that individuals may take to protect their local businesses and neighbors. The unfortunate incident has not only affected Willson and his family but has also left a mark on the local business community, which is now grappling with the consequences of this violent act. With the investigation ongoing, both the family and the police remain hopeful for a swift resolution and justice for Willson's injuries.