Home collapses after retaining wall failure in North SLC

(KUTV) Officials say all but three families were allowed to return back to their homes following a landslide that crushed one home, damaged a tennis and swim club, and placed four other homes in immediate danger.

Evacuations were originally issued for 27 homes on Tuesday morning, according to South Davis Metro Fire. Families in three homes in immediate danger of the landslide are still displaced at this time. Officials say residents in all 27 homes must be ready to flee at a moment's notice in case the landslide moves more.

Any residents in need of assistance are being asked to head to the LDS Church on 351 E. Lofty Lane where crews will have supplies available.

Crews are working to help minimize potential damage to the area. Water lines have been shut off and pools along the landslide area have been drained to prevent a potential tidal wave effect. South Davis Metro Fire says they used equipment to build a berm in preparation for heavy rainfall, hoping to channel the water away from the landslide area. Additional soil was also moved around to relieve pressure.

2News Holly Menino was on the scene Tuesday morning when the landslide happened and destroyed one home. She reports neighbors worked quickly to get the family out of the home before it was demolished.

"We watched as they ran from their home this morning and it's just so frightening to see someone you love and care about lose everything they have," said neighbor Janyce Nestman.

Neighbor Judy Peterson says the neighbors offered the family a place to stay, but they declined because they were told by officials they would be fine.

"We weren't fine. People knew we weren't fine," said Peterson. "People that have experienced landslides know what's happening."

The incident started about a week and a half ago on the hill above the Eagle Ridge Tennis and Swim Club on Parkway Drive. Neighbors say they noticed the earth begin to move when a developer began prepping several lots at the top of the hill.

Officials say the approval to build in the area of the landslide was given seven to nine years ago.

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Home collapses after retaining wall failure in North SLC