Madelyn Eitas, of Rochester, died in an avalanche last Thursday outside Salt Lake City.
An 11-year-old Massachusetts girl died in a Utah avalanche last Thursday while on a ski vacation with her family, according to officials.
Madelyn Eitas, of Rochester, was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition following a frantic search near Brighton Ski Resort, according to Greater Salt Lake police.
“Despite the tremendous and exhaustive efforts of family, first responders and hospital medical staff, the victim tragically passed away,” the department said in a press release.
Greater Salt Lake police said they were alerted to an avalanche involving one person shortly before 12:30 p.m. in an area known as “Rock Garden.” Eitas’s family and more than 20 others had already launched a search by the time emergency crews arrived just minutes later.
The girl’s brother “heroically” found her using an app, police said.
“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” Greater Salt Lake police said. “The communities here in Utah, as well as the family’s home community in Massachusetts, now have the important responsibility of rallying around the family to provide support, compassion, and comfort in the times ahead.”
School officials in Rochester confirmed a student at Rochester Memorial School died following a “tragic accident” while on vacation with her family in Utah, though they did not confirm Eitas’s identity.
“This is devastating news for our school community,” Superintendent Michael S. Nelson said in a statement. “We offer our sincere condolences to the student’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers during this unimaginable time. Our focus at this time is on supporting those who are grieving and we ask that the family’s privacy be respected.”
Nelson said the district is offering counseling and support services to students and staff.
Rochester Chief of Police Michael A. Assad Jr. encouraged community members to support one another and check in on younger neighbors who might be struggling to cope with Eitas’s death.
“Rochester has always been a town that shows up. We show up for our neighbors. We show up in times of need. And right now, the Eitas family needs us,” Assad said in a statement, adding, “Madelyn will never be forgotten. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, her classmates, and this entire community.”
Tributes also poured in from Mariner Youth Soccer and Old Rochester Youth Soccer, which counted Eitas among their players.
“Maddie was a bright and wonderful girl who left a lasting impact on her family, friends, coaches, teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” Mariner Youth Soccer wrote on Facebook. “This devastating news has deeply affected our entire community, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.”
Old Rochester Youth Soccer said Eitas was “a cherished member of our ORU travel soccer family” from the third grade through last fall. The program’s upcoming spring season will be dedicated to Eitas’s memory, and her former teammates will wear patches bearing her name and number.
“Madelyn’s enthusiasm, kindness, and bright spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her,” Old Rochester Youth Soccer said.
