Nine Skiers Perish in Deadly California Avalanche, Including Close-Knit Group
A tragic avalanche in California has resulted in the deaths of nine off-piste skiers, with six of the victims being part of a close-knit group of friends and sisters, according to statements from their families. The avalanche struck Castle Peak, approximately 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe, on Tuesday, but recovery operations were delayed until Saturday due to intense snowfall hindering search and rescue efforts.
Victims Identified as Experienced Skiers with Safety Gear
The families confirmed that the six friends were experienced off-piste skiers and were equipped with avalanche safety equipment at the time of the incident. The women, all in their 40s, have been named as Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Kate Vitt, and sisters Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar. In a heartfelt statement, the families expressed their devastation, stating, "We are devastated beyond words. Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honouring the lives of these extraordinary women." They added that the victims were mothers, wives, and friends united by a love for the outdoors.
Tributes Pour In for the Deceased
Tributes have highlighted the victims' kindness and dedication as mothers. Danielle Keatley, from Larkspur, was described by Mayor Stephanie Andre as "warm, kind and exuded a special quality that drew people to her." Rob Bramble, a fellow resident, noted she was "just a great mum." Carrie Atkin, a former corporate executive and Harvard track and field scholar, was remembered by her high school coach, Jerome Bearden, as a universally liked person. The sisters, Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar, were praised by their brother McAlister Clabaugh as "two of the best people I've ever known," emphasizing their roles as incredible sisters, mothers, wives, and friends.
Additional Victims and Guide Company Statement
The avalanche also claimed the lives of three guides: Andrew Alissandratos, 34, Nicole Choo, 42, and Michael Henry, 30, who worked for Blackbird Mountain Guides. Zeb Blais, the founder, issued a statement calling it "an enormous tragedy, and the saddest event our team has ever experienced." He expressed efforts to support the affected families and team members.
Survivors and Rescue Details
Six individuals survived the avalanche, including two from the friend group, three other skiers, and one guide. They were rescued on Tuesday after calling for help around 11:30 a.m., reporting a terrifying avalanche the length of a football field that struck the group of 15. Recovery teams faced challenging conditions, with white-out obscuring visibility, leading to the discovery of eight victims by Thursday and the final victim on Saturday.
Investigation and Unanswered Questions
The families have stated they "have many unanswered questions" regarding the incident. Authorities are investigating the cause of the avalanche, which is the deadliest in modern California history, and whether criminal negligence played a role. Sheriff Shannan Moon noted that the group was on a normally travelled route and had decided to leave early to avoid an impending snowstorm. Lieutenant Dennis Hack confirmed that five bodies were transported off the mountain on Friday, with the remaining four recovered on Saturday, expressing gratitude for being able to bring the victims home despite the tragic outcome.
