Young girl dies in Utah backcountry avalanche

The girl, believed to be between 10 and 13, was taken to a hospital in critical condition after the incident outside Brighton Ski Resort and later died, officials said.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A young girl in Utah died after being caught in an avalanche in the backcountry near Brighton Ski Resort on Thursday. Rescuers responded to the scene and transported the girl, estimated to be between 10 and 13 years old, to a local hospital in critical condition, but she later died from her injuries.

Why it matters

Avalanche incidents in backcountry areas outside of ski resort boundaries are a growing concern, as they can pose significant risks to recreational users who venture into uncontrolled and unmaintained terrain. This tragedy highlights the need for increased avalanche awareness and safety precautions.

The details

The avalanche occurred near but not at the Brighton Ski Resort. The girl was with family members participating in recreational activities outside the resort boundaries when the incident happened. Two family members searched for the girl, and responders used drones in the search and rescue effort, but the girl did not have an avalanche beacon on her.

  • The avalanche occurred around 12:49 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • The girl was transported to the hospital in critical condition and later died from her injuries.

The players

Brighton Ski Patrol

The ski patrol from Brighton Ski Resort responded to the avalanche incident and were the first on the scene.

Wasatch Backcountry Rescue

A rescue team that responded to the avalanche incident along with the Brighton Ski Patrol.

Wasatch County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the avalanche incident.

Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake

The police department that provided information about the victim and the incident.

Utah Avalanche Center

The organization that issued avalanche warnings for the area due to the unstable snow conditions.

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What they’re saying

“The conditions are ever changing with the unpredictable snowpack. This incident is a reminder that avalanches can happen in an instant.”

— Rosie Rivera, Salt Lake County Sheriff (Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake)

What’s next

The Unified Police Department spokesperson said the girl's family was with her at the hospital when she died. Authorities have not yet released the girl's identity.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of avalanche awareness and safety precautions when venturing into backcountry areas, even outside of designated ski resort boundaries. It serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of avalanches, and the need for increased education and preparedness among outdoor enthusiasts.