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Brighton Today
By the People, for the People
11-Year-Old Massachusetts Girl Killed in Utah Ski Resort Avalanche
Madelyn Eitas was on a family vacation when the tragic incident occurred.
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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An 11-year-old girl from Massachusetts, Madelyn Eitas, was killed in an avalanche at Brighton Ski Resort in Utah while on a family vacation. Eitas was backcountry skiing with her family when the avalanche hit, and her brother heroically used an app to locate her after the incident. First responders performed life-saving measures, but Eitas died at the hospital.
Why it matters
Avalanche-related deaths are a tragic and growing concern at ski resorts, especially as more people venture into backcountry areas. This incident highlights the need for improved safety measures and education to prevent such devastating accidents, particularly involving young people on family vacations.
The details
According to police, the avalanche occurred around 12:30 p.m. on February 19th at Brighton Ski Resort. Eitas was backcountry skiing with her family when the avalanche hit, burying her. Her brother used an unspecified app to help locate her, and first responders rushed to the scene and performed life-saving measures before transporting her to a nearby hospital, where she later died.
- The avalanche occurred around 12:30 p.m. on February 19, 2026.
- Eitas was transported to the hospital in critical condition, where she later died.
The players
Madelyn Eitas
An 11-year-old girl from Rochester, Massachusetts who was killed in the avalanche while on a family vacation.
Cameron Eitas
Madelyn's brother, who heroically used an app to help locate her after the avalanche.
Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake
The police department that responded to the incident and provided details about the tragedy.
Rochester Memorial School
The school Madelyn Eitas attended in Massachusetts.
Old Rochester Regional School District
The school district that Madelyn Eitas was a part of, which offered condolences and support services to the community.
What they’re saying
“Our thoughts are with the victim's family during this incredibly difficult time.”
— Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake (CBS News)
“This is devastating news for our school community. We offer our sincere condolences to the student's family, friends, classmates, and teachers during this unimaginable time.”
— Old Rochester Regional School District (WCVB and Boston 25 News)
What’s next
The Unified Police Department and local authorities will continue investigating the incident to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the avalanche.
The takeaway
This tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of backcountry skiing and the importance of proper safety precautions, especially when families with young children are involved. It underscores the need for enhanced avalanche education and improved resort safety measures to prevent such devastating losses in the future.
