Utah News Roundup: June 25, 2025
Teen Seriously Injured in Provo Canyon Fall
A 15-year-old boy suffered serious injuries after falling 30 feet off Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon on Wednesday. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. while the teen was with his family. According to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, he sustained head and leg injuries. Emergency responders, including a Department of Public Safety helicopter and the North Fork Fire Department, quickly transported him to a local hospital for treatment.
Former Teacher’s Aide Arrested in Undercover Operation
Utah authorities arrested John Royal Belliston, a former teacher’s aide for special needs students, after he allegedly tried to meet a teenager for sex. Belliston, 40, was taken into custody in Utah County following a sting operation where a police officer posed as a 13-year-old girl online. He faces charges including distributing harmful materials to a minor and enticing a minor. Police confirmed Belliston previously worked in two Utah school districts but is not currently employed in education.
Road Rage and Aggressive Driving Cases Surge
Utah Highway Patrol reports a notable increase in aggressive driving and road rage incidents statewide, despite the state passing the nation’s first road rage law last year. Recent incidents included the arrest of three drivers in two separate cases, with charges ranging from reckless driving to assault. Law enforcement officials urge drivers to avoid escalation and report dangerous behavior to authorities.
Utah Ranks Among Top States for Education and Economy
Utah continues to earn national recognition for its robust economy, high-quality education system, and strong infrastructure. According to U.S. News & World Report, Utah ranks second in education, third in economy and infrastructure, and sixth in fiscal stability. The state also holds top-10 placements in crime and corrections, though it ranks lower for natural environment and opportunity.
Utah Jazz Select Ace Bailey in NBA Draft
The Utah Jazz energized fans by selecting Airious "Ace" Bailey, a standout Rutgers freshman, with the fifth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Bailey, known for his athleticism and versatility as a shooting guard and small forward, is expected to make an immediate impact for the team. He comes from a basketball family and was one of the top recruits in the 2024 class.
Majority of Utahns Support Recreational Marijuana Legalization
A new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll reveals that 53% of Utah residents now favor legalizing recreational marijuana for adults, marking a significant shift in public opinion. Support for the state’s medical cannabis program remains strong at 77%. Despite growing support, there is currently no organized effort to legalize recreational use in Utah.
Tariffs Influence Consumer Confidence
Nearly half of Utahns are hesitant to make major purchases, such as homes, due to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. A recent poll found that 49% are delaying significant expenditures, reflecting concerns about the economic impact of added costs on imported goods. Forty percent of respondents said tariffs have not changed their spending plans, while 11% are more likely to spend this year.
Senator Mike Lee Proposes New Public Lands Plan
Environmental issues returned to the spotlight as Senator Mike Lee introduced a new public lands plan after controversial sell-off provisions were removed from a larger budget bill. Conservationists remain watchful as the debate over the management and preservation of Utah’s public lands continues.