Home / Disasters and Accidents / Festival Storm Tragedy: Woman Killed by Falling Plank
Festival Storm Tragedy: Woman Killed by Falling Plank
9 Feb
Summary
- A 23-year-old woman died after a plank fell from 30 feet.
- The accident occurred during a severe storm at a music festival.
- Her parents filed a wrongful death lawsuit against a construction company.
A tragic freak accident at the Redwest Country Music Festival in Salt Lake City resulted in the death of 23-year-old Ava Ahlander. While seeking shelter from 60 mph winds during a severe storm on October 11, 2025, Ahlander was struck by a wooden plank that fell from approximately 30 feet above. The plank originated from a Kier Construction Co. site adjacent to the festival grounds at Utah State Fairpark.
Ahlander succumbed to her injuries two days later. Her parents have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Kier Construction Co. in Utah Third District Court, asserting that the company created hazardous conditions by failing to properly secure the construction site. The lawsuit cites negligence and liability on the part of the construction firm.
The family's attorney emphasized the construction company's responsibility to maintain safe public areas. Ahlander, originally from American Fork, Utah, had traveled from Seattle to attend the festival. Her family described her as a beautiful soul whose kindness and spirit touched many, noting her final act of generosity was organ donation. Over $34,000 was raised on a GoFundMe page to assist with expenses, with remaining funds donated to charity in her name.
