Five family members found dead in Utah canyon following flash flood, according to authorities.
BICKNELL, Utah — A tragic incident unfolded on Friday as five members of a family perished due to a flash flood that swept through canyons in southern Utah. The victims included a well-respected captain in the Provo Fire Department, his wife, and their three sons, as confirmed by local law enforcement and fire officials. The couple’s daughter, who did not accompany them on the hiking trip, survived.
The family had arrived that day at the Sunglow Campground, located in a picturesque red rock canyon near Bicknell. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office stated that the flooding was reportedly triggered by intense rainfall in the area. Authorities indicated that the family fell victim to the swiftly rising waters as they attempted to navigate the challenging terrain.
While the sheriff’s office withheld the names of the deceased, the Provo Fire Department publicly acknowledged the tragedy on social media, confirming that Captain Spencer Long and his family were among the victims. The department expressed profound grief, stating that the loss of Captain Long and his family deeply affected not only his colleagues but also the broader community.
During the evening hours of Friday, authorities received reports from the campground concerning a body discovered in the flood wash. Subsequent recovery operations led to the discovery of the other family members’ bodies late Friday and into Saturday.
In the wake of this devastating event, public tributes have begun to flow in for the Long family. Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their sons Reid, Thayne, and Gage were identified through a GoFundMe campaign initiated by a family friend, which aims to assist the Longs’ daughter as she navigates the immense grief of losing her family. Supporters described the couple as loving and devoted parents whose greatest joy stemmed from their family life.
Katrina Long, remembered for her work as a cofounder of a local medical spa, was also recognized for her generous spirit and kindness. Her colleagues and friends have expressed their sorrow, acknowledging the profound impact the family had on their lives. As community members come together to support the surviving daughter, the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by natural disasters, particularly in regions known for sudden weather changes. The heartache shared by the community highlights the human toll of such incidents, amplifying calls for greater awareness and safety measures in outdoor recreational areas.
Community members and organizations continue to rally around the Long family, offering support in this time of unimaginable loss, as they pay tribute to a family that touched many lives.
