A construction worker was charged with negligent homicide after he lost control of his car in the snow and ice and slid into a pedestrian in Spanish Fork.

Family members identified the victim as Albert V. Burns. Burns is survived by his wife of 52 years, Doris, and three children, Linda, Sue and Terry, as well as seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Burns's family characterized him as a "true American and patriot" who dedicated his life to family and country. He never stopped learning new things, his family said, and was actively involved in politics and his community.

"There are so many words that were never expressed, so many hugs and kisses that were never exchanged. We love Al dearly and he will be missed greatly," read a statement released by Burns's family.

Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Utah County Jail on charges of negligent homicide, driving on a denied driver's license and having no vehicle insurance.

Spanish Fork police spokesman Lt. Steve Adams said the negligent homicide charge was filed because Hernandez was driving too fast for the road conditions. The negligent homicide charge was not related to his lack of a driver's license or insurance, Adams said.

The speed limit on 100 South where Hernandez was driving is listed as 25 mph. Adams said Hernandez was not driving at an appropriate speed, which he defined as "a speed that would not cause you to slide off the road."

"I don't know what that would be," Adams said. "I don't know what would be the more appropriate speed except for the fact that his stated speed of 25 to 30 miles an hour was too fast for the existing conditions, as evidenced by his slide-off."

Blood and urine tests showed no traces of alcohol or drugs in Hernandez, whom police described as cooperative. Police do not suspect drugs or alcohol as contributing factors in the accident.

• Jeremy Duda can be reached at 344-2561 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it