SANDY, Utah (KUTV) — A Utah driver is facing automobile homicide charges after a deadly DUI crash in Sandy.

The victim was identified as Josh Perry, a 40-year-old Sandy resident, according to police.

Police said Perry was in a crosswalk in front of Alta High School when he was hit Thursday night.

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“Our initial investigation shows he was out for a run and was crossing in the crosswalk when he got struck,” said Sgt. Mike Olsen with the Sandy Police Department.

Officers said the driver, who is suspected of driving under the influence, hit Perry at the intersection of 1000 East and 11000 South in Sandy. Perry was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.

Perry later died with his family by his side.

“We send our deepest sympathies to the Perry family,” said Sgt. Olsen.

Following news of his death, members of the community shared messages remembering Perry. One person commented on 2News social media pages, “Josh Perry was an outstanding human being. He was loved by all who knew him. He was a godly family man. This news is hitting very hard for many.”

The driver was identified as Zoe Carisa Blankenstein, 55.

Police said she was initially facing DUI-related charges, but those charges are now being upgraded following Perry’s death.

“But since Josh has passed, we are going to be screening more serious charges against her,” police said.

Investigators are continuing to review evidence in the case. Police also shared a message for drivers following the deadly crash.

“Take a minute and think. Think about not just the consequences for yourself if you were to get arrested for a DUI. Think about the consequences and the impact that it could have on somebody else’s life. Think about how you would react if that were your loved one,” said Sgt. Olsen.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Perry's family. Organizers of the fundraiser said he was a devoted husband to his wife, Caress, and an amazing father to his two children.

"We're asking our community to rally around Caress and the kids to help lift some of the financial weight so they can focus on healing and honoring Josh's memory," the GoFundMe reads.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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