In a heartbreaking tragedy, an 11-year-old girl lost her life in an avalanche while skiing with her family in Utah, leaving her community in mourning.
The young victim, identified as Madelyn Eitas, was caught in the avalanche on Thursday afternoon at Brighton Ski Resort, located in the mountains just east of Salt Lake City.
The Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake reported that Madelyn’s family, along with 20 others, initiated a search effort to find her.
Her brother, Cameron Eitas, is being hailed as a hero for using an app to help track down his sister in a desperate attempt to rescue her.
Emergency responders found Madelyn and immediately performed life-saving procedures before rushing her to a nearby hospital, where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Madelyn’s mother, Becky, shared with NBC Boston that her daughter was always “dancing, smiling, and being goofy,” capturing her vibrant spirit.
Her mom also mentioned how her daughter had a love for sushi and lobster. In addition to being remembered as a sweet, sassy, and smart girl who loved playing soccer.
Eita’s community took to social media to mourn her loss and share their condolences with the family at such a difficult time.
Madelyn Eitas, 11, was identified as the victim of the avalanche on the afternoon as February 19 at the Brighton Ski Resort in the mountains east of Salt Lake City
According to the Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake, Eitas’s family, who she was skiing with at the time began the search with more 20 citizens (Wasatch Front Rocky Mountains, Brighton Ski Resort, close to Salt Lake)
‘The tributes continue to come in for Madelyn Eitas — a beloved member of our community who we lost last week in a tragic accident,’ wrote the Old Rochester Travel Basketball Association.
‘Across gyms and teams, we’ve seen pink ribbons, teal ankle bands, teal hair ribbons, and moments of silence before games — each one serving as a simple but powerful reminder of how deeply the family is loved within our community.’
Madelyn had been a cherished member of Old Rochester Youth Soccer Club since 3rd grade.
‘During her time with ORU, Madelyn was not only a talented and competitive player, but also a joyful and spirited teammate whose energy and love of the game lifted everyone around her,’ wrote the club.
‘Her mother, Becky, was also an integral part of our community as a dedicated member of our coaching staff, helping guide Madelyn and her beloved “Sharks” to multiple undefeated seasons and a South Shore Soccer League Championship. Together, they left a lasting mark on our program.’
‘Madelyn’s enthusiasm, kindness, and bright spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.’
Cameron Eitas, the young girl’s brother, was deemed a hero for using an application to help locate his sister (Eitas pictured with her mother, Becky, her father Greg, and her brother Cameron)
Additionally, the Rochester Police Department released a statement about Madelyn’s passing, encouraging locals to extend compassion, support, and strength to the family. The statement read: ‘In the days and weeks ahead, there will be many ways for us to stand beside them—whether it’s through kind words, supporting one another, respecting their privacy, or simply being present for those who are grieving.’
‘I encourage everyone to check in on your neighbors, especially our young people who may be struggling to understand or cope with this tragedy.’
The statement continued by directly addressing the family, reiterating that they are not alone and that the community stands beside them through such an unimaginable loss.
‘Madelyn will never be forgotten. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, her classmates, and this entire community,’ wrote officials.
