Former Centerville cross-country runner who died in a Utah snow avalanche is being remembered for his caring behavior

A rescue team went to the area mid-morning after the avalanche was reported near Lone Peak in the Wasatch Mountains southeast of Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera said. A third skier, who was able to dig himself out of the snow, was rescued and taken to a hospital, Rivera said. She said she believed he was the one who called for help.

Storms over the previous three days brought up to 1 meter of heavy, wet snow and strong winds to the area.

“And that immediately increased the avalanche danger,” said Craig Gordon, an avalanche forecaster with the U.S. Forest Service Utah Avalanche Center.

“Another factor that complicates weather and snow conditions is that it is spring and weather patterns and weather systems can change very quickly in the mountains,” he said. A day can start out sunny and clear before giving way to clouds or snow or strong winds.

Cameron graduated from Centerville High School in 2020 and then attended Utah State University. He was an Eagle Scout and had a spirit of adventure and a deep love of nature. His obituary states that he frequently went on backcountry ski trips, ultralight backpacking and trail running.

High school friends who ran cross country with Cameron said he was a good teammate.

“My heart is broken after hearing the devastating news. He was one of the best cross country and track and field teammates we ever had. He cared about everyone and he was a funny and great guy. He has brought so much joy and spirit to all of us. I will always remember the memories of him in Centerville. He will always be in my thoughts,” Eric Orf said in Cameron’s obituary.

Ben Burkett ran cross country with Cameron.

“It was great to be around him. He always had a great attitude and a lot of passion for his own goals and for the rest of the team. “My deepest condolences go out to friends and family,” Burkett wrote in Cameron’s obituary.

He was born on December 26, 2001 to Vince and Cindy (Landers) Cameron and is survived by two brothers. Cameron’s memorial service took place on Wednesday.