Girl killed in Brighton Ski Resort avalanche identified as 11-year-old from Massachusetts
Feb 20, 2026, 6:44 PM
An avalanche near Brighton Ski Resort happened Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026. (Mark Less, KSL/Chopper 5)
(Mark Less, KSL/Chopper 5)
SALT LAKE CITY — Police have identified the girl killed in Thursday’s avalanche as an 11-year-old from Massachusetts skiing with her family.
According to the Unified Police Department, at approximately 12:29 pm, they received a report of an avalanche near Brighton Ski Resort that caught one skier.
“The family of the victim and over 20 citizens in the area had already begun initial search and rescue of the victim,” the UPD press release stated. “Her brother Cameron Eitas heroically used an application to locate her.”
Skiers describe trying to help avalanche victim near Brighton
Several first responders worked together to provide life-saving measures to the girl. She was transported to a local hospital in a critical condition instead of a helicopter due to safety concerns and flight risks in the area, according to UPD.
“Despite the tremendous and exhaustive efforts of family, first responders, and hospital medical staff, the victim tragically passed away,” the press release stated.
The 11-year-old was identified as Madelyn Eitas from Rochester, Massachusetts.
