What You Need to Know
• Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons died in a flash flood.
• The family was honored during a funeral service at Utah Valley University on July 29, 2026.
• Hundreds of firefighters and community members attended the service to pay their respects.
Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons—Reid, 20, Thayne, 13, and Gage, 12—were tragically killed in a flash flood while camping on July 17, 2026, at the Sunglow Campground near Bicknell, Utah. A funeral service was held on July 29, 2026, at the event center of Utah Valley University in Orem, where hundreds of firefighters, family, and community members gathered to honor the family. Tim Inman, a firefighter from Southern California, traveled to Utah to attend the service, describing Captain Long as an “amazing human being” who positively impacted many lives. Following the service, a procession of five hearses was escorted by police vehicles, with firefighters and residents lining the streets to pay tribute.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights the dangers associated with flash floods, particularly in camping areas. Flash floods can occur suddenly, especially in mountainous regions, and can be deadly, as evidenced by the tragic loss of the Long family. Captain Spencer Long had served for 17 years with the Provo Fire and Rescue Department, illustrating the dedication of first responders and their families. The community’s outpouring of support during the funeral reflects the profound impact that Captain Long and his family had on those around them.
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