Owens holds moment of silence for Long family lost in flash flood

Today, Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04) held a moment of silence for the family of Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons, Reid, Thayne, and Gage, who lost their lives in a sudden and unexpected flash flood in Wayne County, Utah last week.

Rep. Owens’ remarks, as prepared:

I rise today to honor a beloved Utah family whose lives were lost this past week by a flash flood in Wayne County.

Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons — Reid, Thayne, and Gage — were camping when they were caught in the floodwaters. They are survived by their daughter and sister, Lydia, who now faces this unimaginable loss.

The Longs are among the very best Utah has to offer. Utah mourns together. Words will never be able to adequately express the profound loss that Lydia has experienced.

On behalf of Utah, we offer our deepest condolences to her, the Provo Fire Department, the city of Mona, and to all who loved the Longs.

To many, the thought of continuing without them is unimaginable. Yet we hold fast to Heavenly Fathers’ promise that “The Lord is near unto them that are of a broken heart.” Today, we pray that His presence will be especially near to Lydia and to all who mourn.

I ask that you join me in a moment of silence.

For Lydia and for all who mourn the Longs’ passing… may God bless and comfort them. I yield back.