Leo Shepherd and Anneka Wilson: Utah Teen Couple Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on I-15 After Learner Driver Ignored Safety Concerns

A promising young Utah couple, 17-year-old Anneka Wilson and 18-year-old Leo Shepherd, died in a devastating fireball crash early Saturday after a learner driver who admitted he “did not feel safe” behind the wheel chose to drive anyway.

The fatal collision happened just before 2 a.m. along Interstate 15 in Salt Lake City, when 21-year-old Jose Jimenez allegedly drove the wrong way while under the influence. Jimenez’s gray Audi SQ5 slammed head-on into the teens’ vehicle, erupting into flames upon impact. Both Wilson and Shepherd were pronounced dead at the scene.

The couple had been on their way to Wilson’s aunt’s farm in Idaho to continue their Thanksgiving weekend, according to her cousin, Ericka Wilson Campbell. Just weeks earlier, the pair had celebrated their three-year anniversary.

Jimenez sustained minor injuries and was arrested on multiple charges, including two counts of automobile homicide, DUI, wrong-way driving, and violating his learner’s permit. Court documents reveal that Jimenez admitted he “did not feel safe behind the wheel” even before the crash occurred.

Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Brian Peterson described the wreckage as “one of the worst” scenes he has witnessed in his nearly ten years as a trooper. Southbound lanes of I-15 were shut down for hours and reopened shortly before 10 a.m.

Peterson also noted that another wrong-way driver had been reported nearby around the same time, but troopers managed to stop that vehicle before tragedy struck again.

“Don’t drink and drive,” Peterson urged. “Whatever you do, just don’t get behind the wheel.”

Remembering Anneka Wilson

Anneka, a vibrant and determined 17-year-old, had just been accepted to at least four colleges and planned to attend Snow College or Utah Tech after receiving scholarships.

A GoFundMe created for both families describes her as a “loving, caring soul whose warmth touched everyone she met,” known for her spirited personality and her iconic turquoise jewelry collection.

Her older brother, Hallister, said the family is shattered by her loss.
“She was just a beautiful young lady who wanted nothing more than to help others. She loved being outdoors, riding horses… She was the best sister you could ask for.”

Anneka worked in an elder-care home, often sending videos of herself laughing and bonding with residents — a testament to her naturally nurturing spirit.

Remembering Leo Shepherd

Leo, 18, was remembered as “gentle, warm, and real,” a young man with a huge heart who made every room brighter.

“Leo had that teddy-bear kindness,” the GoFundMe reads. “If he teased you, it meant you were loved.”

Leo Shepherd and Anneka Wilson: Utah Teen Couple Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on I-15 After Learner Driver Ignored Safety Concerns

His sister, Shantell Shepherd Hansen, shared her grief on Facebook:
“Our world shattered. Early this morning, we lost my brother Leo and his beautiful girlfriend Anneka. Two souls who brought so much love and laughter were taken far too soon.”

Leo loved being an uncle, adored the outdoors, and often helped his family with chores, livestock, and daily tasks. His older brother RJ said, “I would give everything to see him one more time… Leo will forever be missed.”

RJ added a powerful message:
“The best thing we can do is forgive, and hope that Leo’s accident becomes a message to people who drink and drive. It’s not worth the pain you cause.”