David Ethier, a 38-year-old man from Quebec, tragically lost his life in an avalanche while snowboarding with his dog in Utah’s Millcreek Canyon. Ethier’s body was recovered after an extensive three-day search that highlighted the deadly risks of unstable snowpack conditions in the region.
The Incident
Ethier was snowboarding with his black Labrador on Saturday, riding a splitboard in Millcreek Canyon, when the avalanche struck. Later that evening, his dog was found wandering alone along Porter Fork Road. Authorities identified Ethier as the owner through the dog’s microchip, sparking a search and rescue operation.
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Ethier’s car was located at the Porter Fork trailhead on Sunday, but harsh weather and dangerous avalanche conditions hampered initial rescue efforts.
Recovery Efforts
Teams from the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SLCOSAR) and the Utah Avalanche Center resumed their search on Monday, using drones and helicopters to scan the area. However, it was a local good Samaritan who ultimately discovered Ethier’s body on Monday night, buried under three feet of snow near the edge of the avalanche debris.
Rescue teams retrieved his body on Tuesday, but the effort triggered additional avalanches, further complicating the recovery.
“One avalanche covered the ascent track in Upper Porter Fork, and another nearly reburied the patient,” SLCOSAR explained.
Salt Lake City County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue
A Beloved Adventurer
Ethier was remembered by his family as a fit and adventurous man who loved the outdoors. His social media showcased his passion for exploring snowy landscapes, often accompanied by his loyal dog. His sister described him as a cherished son, godfather, and “friend to all.”
Avalanche Warnings
Ethier’s death marked the first of two avalanche-related fatalities in the Wasatch Range within three days. On Tuesday, while recovering Ethier’s body, crews responded to another avalanche in Big Cottonwood Canyon, where a solo snowboarder also lost their life.
The Utah Avalanche Center and SLCOSAR have issued stern warnings about the current snowpack instability in the region.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” said Sheriff Rosie Rivera. “Our hearts go out to the family as they grieve the loss of their loved one.”
The SLCOSAR emphasized the dangers of traveling solo in high-hazard terrain and urged outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions, including reading avalanche forecasts, avoiding steep slopes, and carrying rescue gear.
National Concerns
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reported four avalanche-related fatalities across the U.S. since December 15, underscoring the need for heightened awareness during winter activities.
Ethier’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by avalanches and the importance of preparation and caution in the backcountry.
