Authorities identify 11-year-old South Coast girl who died in tragic accident

The Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 confirms that a student from Rochester Memorial School died Thursday while on vacation with her family in Utah following a tragic accident.

The following is a statement from Superintendent Michael S. Nelson:

“This is devastating news for our school community. 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.

“The school system is offering ongoing counseling and support services for students and staff across the school community.”

The Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake issued a press release regarding the tragic death of 11-year-old Madelyn Eitas.

According to KSL TV, there was an avalanche incident near Brighton Ski Resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah that caught Eitas.

Madelyn’s family and over 20 bystanders/citizens immediately began search and rescue efforts.

Her brother, Cameron Eitas, “heroically used an application to locate her”, aiding in finding her along the slide path.

She was extracted, given first aid, and transported to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries.

A statement from UPD expressed condolences.

“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family during this incredibly difficult time. 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.”