Deadly Sierra Avalanche Claims Lives of Mothers, Adventurers, Sisters

Several victims were part of a close-knit group of friends who loved outdoor activities in Northern California.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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At least eight skiers have been confirmed dead, and one remains unaccounted for, after a deadly avalanche struck a group of 15 backcountry skiers north of Lake Tahoe on Tuesday. The victims included mothers from the Bay Area and Marin County, as well as two sisters from San Francisco and Boise, Idaho. The group was on a three-day ski trip organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides when the tragedy occurred.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks inherent in backcountry skiing and the devastating impact on tight-knit communities when such tragedies occur. It also raises questions about avalanche safety protocols and the role of guide services in managing dangerous conditions.

The details

The group of 15 skiers, including four paid guides and 11 trip participants, were at the end of their backcountry ski trip to the Frog Lake huts when the deadly avalanche struck. As they were making their way back, someone in the group spotted a massive wall of snow barreling towards them, prompting a desperate call for help. Rescue efforts were hampered by extreme weather conditions, but six survivors were eventually found. Among the victims were two sisters, as well as mothers from the Bay Area and Marin County communities.

  • On Sunday, the group set off on the expedition on the slopes above Donner Pass as a major winter storm was approaching.
  • By Tuesday morning, several feet of fresh, unstable snow had accumulated, setting the stage for the deadly avalanche.
  • Around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, officials received a distress call, triggering a challenging rescue operation that lasted until around 5:30 p.m.

The players

Caroline Sekar

A 45-year-old mother from San Francisco who was one of the victims.

Liz Clabaugh

A 52-year-old mother from Boise, Idaho, and the sister of Caroline Sekar, who also died in the avalanche.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The Truckee-based company that organized the backcountry ski trip where the deadly avalanche occurred.

Zeb Blais

The founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides, who issued a statement expressing grief and promising further investigation.

Truckee Donner Land Trust

The organization that owns the Frog Lake huts, which the group was attempting to reach when the avalanche struck.

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What they’re saying

“We are an incredibly close and connected community. This tragedy has affected each and every one of us. The best thing we can do is surround our athletes and families with care and support while providing the necessary space and time for grief and healing.”

— Stephen McMahon, Executive Director, Sugar Bowl Academy (ABC-7 Los Angeles)

“There is still a lot that we're learning about what happened. It's too soon to draw conclusions, but investigations are underway. We ask that people following this tragedy refrain from speculating. In the meantime, please keep those impacted in your hearts. ... This was an enormous tragedy, and the saddest event our team has ever experienced.”

— Zeb Blais, Founder, Blackbird Mountain Guides (Statement)

What’s next

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the deadly avalanche, and the Truckee Donner Land Trust is expected to review safety protocols for the Frog Lake huts area.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks in backcountry skiing and the importance of comprehensive safety measures, even when guided by experienced professionals. It has also deeply impacted close-knit communities across Northern California, underscoring the need for support and compassion in the aftermath of such devastating losses.