ST. GEORGE – Eight people are confirmed dead and five remain missing in the wake of the fatal flash flooding that hit Hildale and Colorado City, Arizona, Monday. News of the tragic incident has made regional and national news as search and rescue efforts continue Tuesday morning.
Concerning the incident, Utah Gov. Gary Herbert issued the following statement Tuesday morning:
I am heartbroken to hear of the recent tragedy in Washington County. The State of Utah has offered its full resources to the town of Hildale to aid with the search and rescue effort. The Governor’s Office and the Dept. of Public Safety are in close communication with local government and public safety officials in the affected area. Jeanette and I express out sincere condolences to the families of the victims during this time. I offer my thanks to first responders and other officials involved in the recovery efforts.
Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch also shared his thoughts on the tragedy:
Elaine and I send our prayers for the victims of the Hilldale Flooding and their families, and to the emergency responders as they continue to search for those missing. I am in contact local officials to offer my support, and I’m certain this tragedy will be met with courage and resilience by the citizens in the communities affected.
From Rep. Chris Steward:
My thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by the floods in Hildale. I’m grateful for the first responders and volunteers helping with the search and recovery efforts. My office stands ready to help in any way we can.
From Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes:
I was just in Washington County meeting with members of the Hildale community late last week. I am heartbroken to hear of this devastating loss, particularly in light of other recent tragedies they have faced. Government serves several roles in society, but one of its fundamental obligations is public safety – and I know state and local officials are closely coordinating resources in recovery efforts.
On behalf of the state of Utah, I offer thanks to the first responders, law enforcement personnel, volunteers and others doing all they can to assist recovery efforts. And Saysha and I express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims affected by this tragedy.
Heavy rains hit the Short Creek area Monday around 5 p.m. As a result, several streets flooded and area waterways swelled with flood waters. One of them was Short Creek in Water Canyon, where a flash flood engulfed two vehicles with what officials described as a “wall of water.” There were a total of 16 people occupying the two vehicles.
Multiple emergency agencies have since come together in search and rescue and recovery efforts.
As of Tuesday morning, eight people are confirmed dead, with five still missing. Three people survived the incident, with one being sent to Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George over night.
For ongoing updates see: News LIVE: Fatal flash flood in Hildale.
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Herbert should not be using this tragedy for his political grandstanding. He is the worst kind of hypocrite and scumbag and should be ashamed of himself! Little kids have died! Karma is gonna catch up to that man one of these days! Terrible terrible man
and Hatch as well! These men have hearts as cold as ice as they’ve proven time and time again
You are one sick puppy, scumbag. Using your garbage blogs to criticize anyone who is in a position to help these poor surviving families and, indeed, the whole community. You don’t have to like the Republican officials but you are getting most tiresome ranting the same rants, whining the same whines, and blaming the same blames.
then don’t read it. skip right along to the next one. or my favorite, “if you don’t like it here, then leave!”
Takes one to know one. Fun Bag.
Our prayers go out to the people of that area.
now be careful fun BAG not to turn into a scum BAG yourself….