Six close friends among victims in deadly Sierra Nevada avalanche near Lake Tahoe

A devastating avalanche in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains has claimed the lives of nine people, including six close friends on a long-planned backcountry ski trip near Lake Tahoe.

The women — Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar and Kate Vitt — were described by their families as experienced backcountry skiers connected by a shared love of the outdoors. They were among a group of 15 people, including four professional guides, who were on the final day of a three-day guided expedition when a massive wall of snow and ice swept through the rugged terrain.

Six survivors were rescued, but recovery crews have faced dangerous conditions while attempting to retrieve those killed. Heavy snowfall, strong winds and extreme cold have repeatedly forced delays in reaching the remote site near Castle Peak. Authorities say the mission has shifted from rescue to recovery.

Officials say the avalanche was fueled by unstable snowpack and occurred while the region was under a high avalanche danger rating. The area has since been closed to the public as emergency crews continue their work.

Investigations are underway into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office is examining whether criminal negligence played a role, while California workplace safety officials are reviewing the operations of the guiding company, Blackbird Mountain Guides. The company says its guides were highly trained and is cooperating with investigators.

The avalanche is the deadliest in the United States in more than four decades. Community memorials and vigils are being planned as families and friends mourn the victims.

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