The Salt Lake City Fire Department announced in a report published September 28 that Firefighter Gabe Reilly died Sunday morning following a BASE jumping accident in Cache County. Reilly was a 27-year-old member of the department's crew.
According to a statement from the Cache County Sheriff's Office, the accident occurred when Reilly's wingsuit failed to provide sufficient lift to slow his descent from a height of approximately 700 feet. The incident took place in an area east of Millville Canyon near Leetham’s Hollow, a location noted for its popularity with the sport. Reilly impacted the ground at a high rate of speed and was declared deceased at the scene. A Life Flight helicopter was called to assist during the incident.
The Cache County Sheriff's Office reported that a group of eight to 10 people were involved in the activity. While the area is popular for the sport, officials noted that Reilly was experienced and had participated in this type of activity many times before.
The Salt Lake City Fire Department stated that Reilly was a four-year veteran of the department and followed in the footsteps of his father, who retired from the department in 2024. The department described Reilly as having a kind-hearted nature and a commitment to the community and his fellow firefighters. The department has requested that the family's privacy be respected during this time.
