GREEN RIVER, Emery County — The close-knit community of Green River is grieving the loss of Mayor Ren Hatt, who was killed Friday night in a crash on state Route 6.

Hatt’s death is a devastating blow to the town of about 800 people, where he served not only as mayor, but also as a teacher, coach, and mentor.

Many residents gathered at Green River High School on Saturday afternoon for a boys basketball game — seeking comfort in familiar routines and a chance to honor a leader who left an unforgettable legacy.

Community members posted letters of gratitude towards Mayor Ren Hatt, who died in a car crash on Friday night. (Jodi Reynosa)

“We’re going to miss him a lot,” student Jessica Norman said, who described her shock of learning the news late Friday.

Jessica’s mother, Shannon Johnson

See Full Page