Tragic Loss as Utah Family Caught in Flash Flood

Updated on: July 20, 2026 / 6:27 AM EDT

Five members of a family tragically lost their lives in a flash flood while hiking in southern Utah. Local authorities confirmed the victims included a Provo, Utah, fire department captain, Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their sons Reid, Thayne, and Gage. A daughter, Lydia, who did not join the trip, survived.

Incident Details

The family arrived at Sunglow Campground, located near Bicknell, Utah, for a day of hiking. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office stated the flooding resulted from heavy rains. The bodies were discovered late on Friday and Saturday. Severe weather created hazardous conditions, reported CBS affiliate KUTV.

Community Mourning

The Provo Fire Department expressed their condolences, highlighting the profound loss of Captain Spencer Long and his family. The department changed its Facebook profile picture as a mark of respect.

A GoFundMe page was set up by a family friend to support Lydia, with over $184,000 raised by Monday. It describes the Longs as kind and loving people whose lives impacted many. Katrina Long co-founded a medical spa, which also mourned her passing on social media.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Several agencies participated in the search, including Sevier County Search and Rescue, the Utah Highway Patrol, and a helicopter crew from the Utah Department of Public Safety. Sheriff Micah Gulley acknowledged their efforts in the recovery operation.