The Utah community is mourning the tragic loss of Nicole Bella Bennett, an 18-year-old who was found deceased following an extensive search near the Red Cliffs Trailhead, west of Leeds, Utah. Her death has been confirmed by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, bringing a heartbreaking end to days of concern, hope, and prayer from family, friends, and the public.
Nicole was last seen around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the area near Red Cliffs Trailhead. When she did not return home and could not be reached, loved ones reported her missing, prompting an urgent response from local authorities and search-and-rescue teams. Her vehicle was later located, intensifying the search efforts.
According to family members, Nicole was familiar with the area and enjoyed hiking there. She was believed to have been alone at the time she went missing. Overnight and early-morning search operations were conducted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue teams, and the Utah Department of Public Safety, including aerial assistance from a DPS helicopter known as Star 7, which searched the Red Cliffs area west of Interstate 15.
Despite the tireless efforts of first responders and volunteers, authorities later confirmed that Nicole had been located deceased. At this time, no additional details regarding the cause or manner of death have been publicly released, and officials have not indicated any suspicion of foul play. The investigation remains under the jurisdiction of local authorities.
Nicole’s death has sent shockwaves through her family and the wider community. Messages of sorrow and remembrance have poured in, reflecting the deep impact she had at such a young age. Those who knew Nicole describe her as kind, adventurous, and full of life—a young woman with a love for nature and the outdoors.
Her sudden passing has left loved ones grappling with unimaginable grief. Family members have expressed their heartbreak while also extending gratitude to law enforcement, search-and-rescue teams, and community members who shared information, assisted in the search, and held Nicole in their thoughts and prayers.
As the community mourns, there is a shared call for compassion and respect for Nicole’s family as they navigate this devastating loss. Further information is expected to be released by authorities when appropriate.
Nicole Bella Bennett will be remembered not for the tragedy of her passing, but for the life she lived and the love she shared. She leaves behind family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by her presence.
May Nicole rest in peace, and may her loved ones find comfort in the support and care surrounding them during this incredibly difficult time.
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