Rochester Girl, 11, Dies in Utah Avalanche

Family Celebrates Her Life After Tragic Incident

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Madelyn Eitas, an 11-year-old from Rochester, Massachusetts, tragically died after being caught in an avalanche while skiing with her family at Brighton Ski Resort in Utah on February 19. Her family and community gathered to celebrate Madelyn's life, honoring her memory and the heroic actions of her brother Cam, who used an avalanche app to help locate her during the rescue effort.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the inherent risks of backcountry skiing and the evolving role of technology in avalanche safety and rescue operations. While technology can aid in these situations, it does not eliminate the dangers of venturing into avalanche-prone areas. The community's response in supporting the Eitas family also underscores the importance of coming together in times of tragedy.

The details

Madelyn was fully buried under four feet of snow for approximately 17 minutes before first responders were able to locate her using the avalanche app that she and her brother were sharing. Despite the rapid rescue effort, Madelyn tragically succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital. Her mother, Becky Eitas, welcomed loved ones to celebrate Madelyn's life, including her sixth-grade classmates and 'soccer sisters.' The Rochester Memorial School is also offering support services to students and staff.

  • Madelyn Eitas died on February 19, 2026 while on a family ski trip in Utah.
  • A Celebration of Life for Madelyn was held on Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Madelyn Eitas

An 11-year-old girl from Rochester, Massachusetts who tragically died in an avalanche while skiing with her family in Utah.

Cam Eitas

Madelyn's brother, who 'heroically' used an avalanche app to help locate her during the rescue effort.

Becky Eitas

Madelyn's mother, who welcomed loved ones to celebrate her daughter's life.

Michael Assad Jr.

The Rochester police chief who called for the community to unite in support of the Eitas family.

Rochester Memorial School

The school that is offering support services to students and staff following Madelyn's tragic death.

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What they’re saying

“Today we are here to celebrate and laugh, be with all her friends, her soccer sisters as we call them, and celebrate her as a kid. She was attractive inside and out.”

— Becky Eitas, Madelyn's mother

“I hope they have a great time and celebrate all she had to live for.”

— Cam Eitas, Madelyn's brother

“In 11 years, she got a lot in, just going back to the pictures and videos, hard to believe we did that all as a family, but it's memories that we will cherish forever.”

— Becky Eitas, Madelyn's mother

“There are simply no words that can fully capture the weight of this loss or the heartbreak her family is experiencing. A life so young, full of promise, kindness, and joy, taken far too soon. Let us honor her by coming together—stronger, kinder, and more united than ever.”

— Michael Assad Jr., Rochester police chief

What’s next

Those wishing to support the Eitas family can find more information at this link.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of backcountry safety and the role technology can play in rescue efforts, while also highlighting the resilience and compassion of the community in supporting the Eitas family during this difficult time.