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WEST BOUNTIFUL — Family members are remembering a 16-year-old girl who died Tuesday after a decorative post fell on her as a "caring and bright young woman."
The victim was identified by her family as Madolin Morley, a student at Viewmont High School in Bountiful.
"We are all saddened by the sudden loss of our sweet Madolin — a kind, caring, and bright young woman who touched countless lives. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support from our family, friends, school and community. As we all grieve in our own ways, let us all act as Madolin would, by thinking of others first and being a friend to all," Matt Morley, Madolin's uncle, said in a statement provided to KSL.com late Tuesday.
West Bountiful police said the accident happened about 1:30 p.m. at a home near 800 West (Onion Street) and Heritage Point Lane. A group of teenagers was hanging out in a backyard to celebrate the last day of school when police say a decorative post, described as a rock pillar, tipped over and fell on a 16-year-old girl who was attending the celebration.
Family members said Madolin was in a hammock when the rock wall or decorative pole fell on her.
Madolin was transported by ambulance to Lakeview Hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to her injuries, police said.
"There is absolutely no foul play in this at all," West Bountiful Police Chief Brandon Erekson said. "It is a very, very tragic accident."
Viewmont High School administration sent out an email Tuesday evening notifying parents and students of the accident.
"Our hearts are heavy following the sudden death of one of our students. We are deeply saddened for the family, friends, classmates and staff members that are affected by this difficult news," the school's statement said. "It is an honor to be a part of a community that is so caring and supportive. We truly appreciate the way you take care of each other. You are incredible examples of how to approach challenges and provide support."
The school administrators said the Davis School District Crisis Response Team will be available Wednesday at 8 a.m. in the Viewmont High School Media Center for students and staff members needing grief counseling.
Contributing: Debbie Worthen
