Hillsborough Man Killed in Tahoe Ski Crash

The second person involved was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A 53-year-old Hillsborough resident named Stuart McLaughlin died on Sunday following a collision on the slopes of Northstar Ski Resort in Tahoe. The Placer County Sheriff's Office and the resort reported that McLaughlin was pronounced dead at the scene by the Northstar Fire Department after the serious on-mountain collision involving two guests.

Why it matters

This tragic incident is one of multiple fatalities reported at California ski resorts this year, raising concerns about safety on the slopes and the need for enhanced safety measures and protocols.

The details

According to reports, the sheriff's coroner unit responded to the fatal accident around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. The second person involved in the collision was transported to Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee for treatment. No further details regarding the cause of the collision have been released.

  • The fatal accident occurred on Sunday, February 18, 2026 around 11:30 a.m.

The players

Stuart McLaughlin

A 53-year-old resident of Hillsborough, California who was killed in the ski collision at Northstar Ski Resort.

Tara Schoedinger

The General Manager of Northstar Ski Resort, who expressed deep condolences for the guests involved in the tragic incident.

Placer County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to and reported on the fatal ski collision at Northstar Ski Resort.

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What they’re saying

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event, and the Northstar team extends our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and friends of the guests involved.”

— Tara Schoedinger, Northstar General Manager (Patch.com)

What’s next

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision and have not released further details.

The takeaway

This fatal ski accident at Northstar Ski Resort is a tragic reminder of the importance of safety on the slopes, especially as California ski resorts have seen an increase in fatalities this season. The resort and local authorities will likely review safety protocols and procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.