SiriusXM Radio Exec Identified as First Victim in Deadly Tahoe Avalanche

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A radio executive for SiriusXM, Kate Vitt, has been identified as the first victim in the deadly Lake Tahoe avalanche that killed a total of 8 people. Vitt, a mother of two and vice president at SiriusXM, was among the victims found on Castle Peak, though authorities have not yet released the identities of the other 7 victims.

Why it matters

The Lake Tahoe avalanche tragedy has shocked the local community, with customers and staff at a nearby ski shop expressing disbelief at the loss of Vitt, a regular customer. The incident has raised concerns about the dangers of outdoor recreation in the region, especially during hazardous weather conditions.

The details

Rescue crews located the victims' bodies on Castle Peak, but the Nevada County Sheriff said they remain on the mountain due to hazardous weather conditions. Authorities have not yet released identities of the victims, who were reported to be seven women and two men between the ages of 30 and 55. Three of the deceased were ski guides.

• The avalanche occurred on February 19, 2026.

What’s next

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the other 7 victims, and rescue crews are unable to recover the bodies due to the hazardous weather conditions on Castle Peak.