Utah Snowmobiler Nicholas Bringhurst Dies in Wyoming Avalanche

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 🚨 A tragic avalanche in western Wyoming claimed the life of 31‑year‑old Nicholas Bringhurst of Springville, Utah, on Sunday afternoon. Authorities say Bringhurst was snowmobiling with a friend in the LaBarge Creek area when the slide occurred at approximately 2 p.m.

Utah Snowmobiler Nicholas Bringhurst Dies

📍 Avalanche Incident Details

  • Victim: Nicholas Bringhurst, 31, of Springville, Utah

  • Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026

  • Location: LaBarge Creek area, western Wyoming

  • Elevation: ~8,800 feet

  • Avalanche rating: D2 (capable of burying a person)

  • Circumstances: Bringhurst was trapped about 2 feet under snow and his snowmobile

  • Equipment: Avalanche airbag backpack deployed but did not prevent burial

  • Rescue: Partner located him, dug him out, and performed CPR; emergency satellite alert sent via Garmin inReach device

  • Response: Star Valley Search and Rescue and helicopter crews arrived, but efforts came too late

🔎 Investigators’ Findings

Officials from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Bridger‑Teton Avalanche Center suspect the slide failed on a weak “Christmas crust” layer formed by holiday rain. The coroner will determine the official cause of death.

Nicholas Bringhurst Dies in Wyoming Avalanche

💐 Family & Community Response

The sheriff’s office offered condolences to Bringhurst’s family. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support his wife, Lauren, during this devastating time.

The fundraiser describes their love as “rooted in the outdoors”, recalling how they fell in love while river guiding, bonded by long days on the water, shared adventures, and a deep appreciation for nature.

  • Fundraising goal: $55,000

  • Raised: More than $35,000 as of Friday

  • Purpose: Funeral costs, financial support, and giving Lauren space to grieve and heal

⚠️ Avalanche Safety Reminder

This tragedy underscores the dangers of backcountry snowmobiling and the importance of avalanche awareness. Even with safety gear such as airbags and satellite devices, conditions can change rapidly, and weak snow layers can trigger deadly slides.

This story is shared for awareness purposes, based on information provided by local law enforcement, avalanche experts, and family fundraising efforts. 🚨

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