Officials announced on Saturday that they recovered the bodies of nine backcountry skiers who perished in an avalanche near Lake Tahoe, California. Among the victims were six friends known for their passion for skiing, and three experienced guides.
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identities of the guides: Michael Henry, Andrew Alissandratos, and Nicole Choo. Family members identified the six friends as Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar, and Kate Vitt.
“We are grateful that we can bring them home,” Sheriff Shannan Moon stated. Recovery efforts faced delays due to ongoing avalanche conditions. Crews used helicopters to drop water on the slope, stabilizing it and allowing for safer recovery operations. Five bodies were lifted from the site on Friday, and four more were recovered by Saturday.
Fifteen skiers were involved in the incident, with six surviving. Two skiers sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Harsh weather and the risk of further avalanches had complicated rescue efforts for several days.
Multiple agencies are investigating the incident. The Sierra Avalanche Center plans to produce a report, while Cal/OSHA looks into workplace safety regulations. The sheriff’s office is also exploring whether there could be any criminal negligence involved.
Ashley Quadros from the sheriff’s office emphasized the importance of thorough investigations. “We’re gathering information from survivors,” she noted. Questions are emerging about the group’s assessment of conditions, their chosen route, and whether the avalanche was triggered by natural events or skiers.
The group had intended to complete a three-day tour but hastened their return as the storm worsened. Sheriff Moon pointed out that they were likely trying to leave the mountain quickly.
While the exact circumstances are still being pieced together, it’s a tragic reminder of the risks faced by outdoor enthusiasts. According to the National Avalanche Center, over 30 people lose their lives in avalanches each year in the U.S. alone, underlining the necessity of understanding weather patterns and avalanche risks.
As investigations continue, families are left grappling with their loss, highlighting the impact on the skiing community. The incident has sparked conversations on social media about safety in backcountry skiing. Tips for safe skiing practices are resonating in posts, emphasizing preparedness and awareness.
For further information on avalanche safety, visit the Avalanche Awareness Center.
