SALT LAKE CITY — Utah families gathered Wednesday to mourn the loss of the children they lost in a motor vehicle crash last year, while also sharing important information about safe driving at the 17th Annual Teen Memoriam.

In 2024, 18 teenagers were killed on Utah roads, and 36 teen drivers were involved in a fatal crash.

One of those teens was Jaxxlyn Cowley, whose mother, Wendy, spoke of her daughter being a bright light and someone who loved animals. Wendy and her husband adopted Jaxxlyn when she was 12 years old.

“Having kids that age, it’s very hard to find foster homes for them,” Wendy said. “She was so outgoing and not afraid of anything or anyone.”

Wendy said she and Jaxxlyn discussed the importance of being safe behind the wheel and set rules about no texting or drinking whil

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