A 22-year-old BYU student died in a car accident on Sunday night.

Ashley Dawn Hansen had been visiting her family in Mountlake Terrace, Wash., and was returning home when the accident occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m., near Snowville.

Hansen was ejected from the vehicle when the driver swerved to avoid a deer, and the vehicle rolled three times. She was not wearing a seatbelt and died instantly.

The other four passengers suffered non life-threatening injuries and were transported to Bear River Valley Hospital.

Hansen was a senior majoring in secondary education and planned to become a middle school teacher when she graduated, according to information provided by her family.

"Family, friends and church were her priorities above all else," her family said. "She loved her family and friends. She loved her students and rejoiced in the opportunity to be with them every day, whether at school or their many extra-curricular activities. She went to their games, plays, dance and music recitals or whatever activity she could, because she loved to see them, and encouraged them to succeed and do their best."

For the last three years, Hansen lived with her aunt and uncle in American Fork while attending BYU.

"We will all cherish the 22 short years we had with her on this earth and look forward longingly for the day we get to see and embrace her again, for we know that families are forever," her family said.

Funeral services are planned for Friday at 1 p.m. at the Traverse Mountain Stake Center, in Lehi. Friends and family may attend the viewing from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., prior to the services.

A memorial service is also planned for December 8 at 10 a.m. in Mountlake Terrace, Wash.

Donations may be made to the Ashley Hansen Memorial Fund at Utah Community Credit Union.

Copyright Brigham Young University 29 Nov 2007