Ottaniel Morales Obituary, Cause of Death – 20-Year-Old Expectant Father Killed in Salt Lake City Hit-and-Run

Ottaniel Morales, a 20-year-old Salt Lake City restaurant worker and expecting father, is being remembered after his life was tragically cut short in a deadly hit-and-run in downtown Salt Lake City.

Morales was identified as the victim of the fatal pedestrian collision, leaving his family, friends, coworkers, and the local restaurant community grieving his loss.

Remembering Ottaniel Morales

Morales worked at White Horse and Franklin Ave., restaurants owned by The Bourbon Group in downtown Salt Lake City. His coworkers remembered him as a humble, grateful, hardworking young man who was dedicated to supporting his family.

Matt Crandall, a partner at The Bourbon Group, described Morales as a “great young kid” who was known for his humility, gratitude, and strong work ethic.

Morales worked two jobs and spent much of his time working alongside his coworkers in an effort to provide for his family.

His death has deeply affected the people who worked with him, particularly those who knew him through the restaurants where he spent so much of his time.

Ottaniel Morales Was an Expecting Father

Morales’ death is especially heartbreaking for his family because his wife is pregnant and reportedly only weeks away from giving birth.

The loss comes at a time when the family was preparing to welcome a child, adding another layer of grief to an already devastating situation.

Friends, coworkers, and members of the community are now coming together to support Morales’ wife and their family during this difficult period.

White Horse Restaurant Supports His Family

In response to Morales’ death, White Horse is planning to donate 100% of its proceeds from Friday, September 18, 2026, to his family.

The effort reflects the strong connection Morales had with his coworkers and the restaurant community. His colleagues are seeking to provide practical and financial support to his loved ones as they navigate the aftermath of his death.

The fundraiser is also an expression of the impact Morales had during his time working at White Horse and Franklin Ave.

Ottaniel Morales Cause of Death

According to the report provided, Ottaniel Morales died after being struck in a deadly hit-and-run pedestrian collision in downtown Salt Lake City.

Authorities were investigating the incident and searching for the hit-and-run suspect. Further details regarding the collision and investigation should be confirmed through law enforcement updates.

A Young Life Remembered

At just 20 years old, Ottaniel Morales leaves behind family, coworkers, and friends who remember him for his kindness, humility, gratitude, and dedication to providing for those he loved.

His coworkers say he worked hard and spent much of his time helping support his family. Now, the people who worked alongside him are returning that care by coming together to support his wife and their soon-to-be-born child.

The community’s efforts are intended to ensure that Morales’ family has support during one of the most difficult moments of their lives.

May Ottaniel Morales rest in peace.