Tooele Community Rallies Behind Family After Daughter's Freak Accident

20-year-old Erin Plumb remains in a coma following a severe brain injury.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:54am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the intricate structure of a human skull and brain, symbolizing the fragility and complexity of the human body and the importance of medical care and community support during times of crisis.A community's outpouring of support helps a family navigate the uncertain road to recovery after a devastating brain injury.Tooele Today

A Tooele, Utah family is expressing gratitude for the outpouring of community support after their 20-year-old daughter, Erin Plumb, suffered a severe brain injury in a freak accident and has been in a coma for nearly two weeks. The local cafe Chubby's donated all of its proceeds to help the family with medical bills, raising over $3,000, while a GoFundMe campaign has also been set up.

Why it matters

The Plumb family's story highlights the importance of community support during times of medical crisis and unexpected tragedy. Tooele, a tight-knit Utah town, has rallied behind the family, demonstrating the power of neighbors helping neighbors in times of need.

The details

According to Erin's mother Heather Plumb, the accident occurred 11 days ago when Erin "somehow slipped off the back of a downed tailgate and suffered a severe brain injury." Erin is currently at the University of Utah Hospital, where doctors are working to balance treatment for blood clots in her lungs with the risk of worsening a small brain bleed. Erin's condition has been a "series of highs and lows" during her recovery.

  • The accident occurred 11 days ago.
  • Erin has been in a coma for nearly two weeks.

The players

Erin Plumb

A 20-year-old Tooele resident who suffered a severe brain injury in a freak accident and has been in a coma for nearly two weeks.

Heather Plumb

Erin's mother, who has been providing updates on her daughter's condition and expressing gratitude for the community support.

Sena Spencer

A family friend who provided details about the severity of Erin's injury, stating that "she hit her head in the wrong spot, and it's been rough. Right now, both sides of her skull have been removed."

Joe Moak

The owner of Chubby's Cafe in Tooele, who donated all of the restaurant's proceeds on a single day to support the Plumb family.

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What they’re saying

“We're on day 11 now and have people still commenting, still praying.”

— Heather Plumb, Erin's mother

“Community really steps up and supports each other, and it's amazing to see as it's grown, it hasn't gone away. It's something so small for us to do that hopefully it helps.”

— Joe Moak, Owner of Chubby's Cafe

“It is amazing what Tooele County residents do for one another.”

— Joe Moak, Owner of Chubby's Cafe

“There aren't words to adequately say how much it means to us. How do you thank someone that's literally keeping you going?”

— Heather Plumb, Erin's mother

What’s next

Erin Plumb faces a long road to recovery, and the community's continued support will be crucial as her family navigates the challenges ahead.

The takeaway

The Plumb family's story exemplifies the power of community support during times of crisis. Tooele's residents have rallied behind the family, demonstrating the importance of neighbors helping neighbors and the profound impact that even small acts of kindness can have on those in need.