A family outing turned tragic Friday when a flash flood swept through a scenic canyon in southern Utah, killing five members of a Provo fire department family who had gone hiking near Bicknell.
Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons Reid, Thayne, and Gage died after heavy rains caused flooding at Sunglow campground. The family's daughter, who was not on the trip, survived.
The Provo Fire Department confirmed the identities and expressed their grief in a social media statement. "We are absolutely heartbroken by the death of Captain Spencer Long and his family. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time," officials wrote.
Authorities discovered the first body Friday night when deputies were called to the campground after locating a young man in the flood wash. Recovery efforts continued into Saturday as the remaining family members were found.
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office determined that heavy rains were the cause. "It is believed the family fell victim to flooding caused by heavy rains," the office said in a statement.
Katrina Long was co-founder of Summit Medical Spa, which issued its own tribute. "Our hearts are with all of their loved ones as we grieve the unimaginable loss of Katrina, her husband, and their three beautiful boys," the business posted on Facebook.
A family friend established a GoFundMe to support the Longs' surviving daughter. "Spencer and Katrina were loving, devoted parents whose greatest joy was their family. They touched the lives of so many with their kindness, generosity, and unwavering love," wrote Bree Nielson on the fundraising page.
Author James Rodriguez: "Flash floods in canyon country are merciless and fast, and the danger is real even on what seems like a routine family day."
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