"Young Girl" Dies In Avalanche Near Brighton Resort, Utah

The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) has confirmed that a “young girl” died in an avalanche near Brighton Resort on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The accident reportedly occurred in a zone called Rock Garden outside of the resort’s boundary. Brighton is known for its various backcountry access gates scattered around the perimeter of the resort.

Unified police detective Quin Wilkins told KSL that the girl was not wearing an avalanche beacon.

“I want to thank all the responding agencies for their quick response to this avalanche. The conditions are ever-changing with the unpredictable snowpack,” said Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera in a statement. “This incident is a reminder that avalanches can happen in an instant. I offer my heartfelt prayers to the victim and her family.”

UAC forecasters are expected to visit the accident site today, February 20th.

The accident marks the second avalanche-related death in Utah this week and this season. A snowmobiler was killed on Wednesday, February 18th, according to the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office. At least 16 people have died nationwide in avalanches this winter season, according to avalanche.org.

POWDER will update this article as more information is made available. Our thoughts and condolences are with the friends and family of the victim.

Related: Families of Six Castle Peak Avalanche Victims Release Statement