Investigation Underway After Dirt Biker Injured by Hidden Wire in American Fork Canyon
AMERICAN FORK, Utah — A Utah dirt biker was thrown from his motorcycle and injured after hitting a black wire strung between two trees on the Hidden Forest Trail in American Fork Canyon.
Daniel Bender of Alpine said what was meant to be a routine Friday ride turned dangerous when he struck what he described as a “trap.” According to Bender, the wire was stretched at about neck height across the trail.
“There are hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and dirt bikes out here — it’s one of my favorite places to ride,” Bender said. “Somebody put a black wire between two trees. My helmet caught it, it went into my mouth and cut me up inside and out before throwing me off the bike.”
Bender said the wire left him with cuts inside his mouth and on his face but believes the outcome could have been far worse. “It could have hit my neck or caused permanent damage,” he said. He and a friend removed the wire and later filed a report with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.
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Sgt. Ray Ormond, public information officer for the sheriff’s office, confirmed an investigation is underway. He said incidents like this are rare but serious. “These are thankfully uncommon, but someone could face reckless endangerment charges,” Ormond said, noting that such a charge is a class A misdemeanor and can carry up to a year in jail and a fine.
Bender also contacted the National Forest Service to report the hazard. The reason the wire was placed remains unclear. “I want people to understand how dangerous this is,” Bender said. “Other riders have been killed in similar situations.”
Authorities are urging trail users to travel at safe speeds to spot hazards early and report anything suspicious.
Bender shared his experience on social media, hoping to raise awareness and keep others safe. “I’ve already heard from several people who said they’ve seen or taken down wires like this,” he said. “I just hope this stops before someone gets seriously hurt or worse.”
A hidden wire injured a dirt biker in American Fork Canyon — a dangerous trap that could have been deadly. If you’re hurt because of someone’s negligence, Cockayne Law can help you seek justice and compensation.
