A tragic helicopter crash on the icy surface of Ririe Reservoir near Idaho Falls on Thursday, February 20, 2025, claimed the life of 59-year-old Bradford Brown, a respected CEO from Alpine, Utah. Brown, who was aboard the aircraft, succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the accident, about a mile east of the dam. The crash has left a profound sense of loss in the business and life sciences communities, as Bradford Brown was widely admired for his leadership, business acumen, and philanthropic contributions.
The crash also involved a second passenger, whose identity has not been publicly released. Fortunately, the second individual survived the crash and was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities, including the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. At this time, no further details have been released about the circumstances leading to the crash, but officials are closely examining the situation. The icy conditions of the reservoir, combined with the difficult terrain, may have contributed to the crash, but the investigation is ongoing.
Bradford Brown was best known as the founder and CEO of ATL Technology, a Springville-based company specializing in the manufacturing of medical devices. Under his leadership, ATL grew to become a prominent player in the medical device industry, making significant contributions to the development of innovative technologies that helped improve healthcare outcomes. His work not only shaped the direction of his company but also impacted the broader life sciences sector in Utah, where he was considered a key figure.
In addition to his role at ATL Technology, Brown was deeply involved in the nonprofit sector, particularly in BioUtah, an organization dedicated to supporting the life sciences community in Utah. He served as a dedicated board member, using his expertise and leadership skills to advocate for the growth and success of Utah’s life sciences industry. His involvement in BioUtah was a reflection of his commitment to the community and his desire to help others achieve success in the field of medical technology.
Kelvyn Cullimore, CEO and President of BioUtah, expressed his sorrow over the loss of Bradford Brown, calling him a “true captain” of the medical device community. Cullimore, who worked closely with Brown for many years, described him as a humble family man, a devout Christian, and a passionate aviator. “Bradford was deeply passionate about flying—a skill he mastered over decades,” Cullimore said. “His loss is a profound one for Utah’s life sciences community. He was a visionary leader who spent years advocating for the growth of our industry.”
Brown’s passing has left a deep void in both the business and philanthropic communities. In a statement, ATL Technology expressed their sorrow, acknowledging the immense impact Brown had on the company, the life sciences industry, and those who worked alongside him. The statement, which was released shortly after the news of his death, emphasized that Brown’s leadership was instrumental in the success of ATL Technology and that his legacy would continue to shape the company for years to come.
“Our close-knit ATL family is heartbroken by the tragic loss of our founder,” the statement read. “Bradford was a visionary leader, deeply passionate about ATL, the life sciences industry, and, above all, his family and community. His impact on ATL and the global life sciences sector is immeasurable. Bradford’s influence extended far beyond our company, and we are committed to honoring his legacy.”
In recognition of the emotional toll this loss has had on his employees, ATL Technology has pledged to provide mental health support for its staff, many of whom had worked alongside Bradford Brown for decades. The company has always been known for fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment, and they are now extending that support to help their employees navigate the grief and loss they are experiencing. This gesture reflects the values Bradford instilled in his company—a deep care for the well-being of others.
Bradford Brown’s legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements. He was a man of character and integrity, admired not only for his business acumen but also for his genuine care for others. Brown was known for his kindness, mentorship, and the way he encouraged those around him to strive for excellence. He had a unique ability to inspire others and to make them believe in their own potential. His leadership was grounded in his belief in the power of collaboration and community, and he always sought to elevate those around him.
Brown’s career was not limited to just his work in the business world. He was a passionate aviator, with over 4,200 flight hours across both airplanes and helicopters. His love for flying was a personal passion, and he took great pride in his skill and experience as a pilot. Friends and colleagues often spoke of his enthusiasm for aviation, describing him as someone who found joy in the freedom of flight. His dedication to flying mirrored his approach to life—always striving to improve, to master new challenges, and to pursue his passions with enthusiasm.
A graduate of Brigham Young University (BYU), Bradford Brown received his degree in Medical Engineering and went on to make significant contributions to the medical device industry. His academic background provided him with the knowledge and expertise to excel in his career, and he was widely respected for his innovative contributions to medical technology. Brown’s education at BYU, coupled with his years of professional experience, made him a trusted leader and an influential figure in Utah’s thriving life sciences sector.
As news of Bradford Brown’s tragic passing continues to spread, his family, friends, and colleagues are left to cope with the shock and sadness of losing such a remarkable individual. His contributions to the life sciences industry, his leadership at ATL Technology, and his personal qualities have left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His untimely death has left a profound gap in the community, one that will be difficult to fill.
Bradford Brown is survived by his wife, Shannon, and their family, who are now grieving the loss of a beloved husband, father, and friend. Despite his demanding career, Brown always prioritized time with his family, and his deep love for them was evident in everything he did. The impact he had on the lives of his loved ones is immeasurable, and they, along with his colleagues and friends, will forever remember him for his kindness, dedication, and leadership.
The investigation into the cause of the helicopter crash is still ongoing. Authorities are working diligently to determine what led to the tragic accident, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses. For now, the community continues to mourn the loss of a man who touched the lives of so many, and they rally around his family to offer support and comfort during this difficult time.
In the days ahead, Bradford Brown’s legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. His work in the medical device industry, his leadership at ATL Technology, and his commitment to helping others will live on as a testament to his character and vision. As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, those who were fortunate enough to work with and learn from Bradford will continue to honor his memory and strive to carry forward his dedication to excellence.
Bradford Brown’s life, though tragically cut short, leaves a lasting impact. His contributions to business, philanthropy, and aviation will not be forgotten, and his spirit will live on through the lives he touched.
