8 Killed in Deadly California Avalanche

Skiers with ties to Lake Tahoe alpine community among victims of nation's deadliest avalanche in decades

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A group of 15 backcountry skiers were struck by a powerful avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, leaving 8 dead and 1 missing. The ski group had deep connections to the alpine recreation community around Lake Tahoe, including the Sugar Bowl Academy. Four of the victims were guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides, a company that offers mountaineering and backcountry ski trips. Authorities are still recovering the bodies as the area was hit by severe winter storms.

Why it matters

This tragedy highlights the risks inherent in backcountry skiing, even for experienced guides and groups. It also underscores the close-knit nature of the alpine recreation community in the Lake Tahoe region, where many of the victims had strong ties. The incident raises questions about avalanche safety protocols and whether more can be done to protect skiers in remote, high-risk areas.

The details

The group of 15 skiers were returning from remote huts at high elevation when they were struck by the avalanche on Tuesday. Six members of the group survived, with one remaining hospitalized. The victims ranged in age from 30 to 55 and included four guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides, a company that offers backcountry ski trips and safety courses. Authorities say the skiers all had avalanche beacons, but it's unclear if they were also wearing avalanche airbags.

  • The ski tour began on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • The avalanche occurred on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Avalanche warnings were in effect in the area starting on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Sugar Bowl Academy

A ski school and academic institution that offers alpine and backcountry ski instruction for young athletes. Several of the victims had strong connections to Sugar Bowl, Donner Summit, and the broader backcountry skiing community.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

A company that offers mountaineering and backcountry ski trips, as well as safety courses, across the Western U.S. and internationally. Four of the victims were guides with Blackbird Mountain Guides.

Zeb Blais

The founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides, who stated the company has launched an investigation and paused field operations at least through the weekend to support the victims' families.

Max Perrey

The mayor of Mill Valley, California, who confirmed that some of the victims were women from his city.

Shannan Moon

The Nevada County Sheriff, who described the harrowing rescue efforts in blizzard conditions.

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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.”

— Stephen McMahon, Executive Director, Sugar Bowl Academy (ksgf.com)

“We don't have all the answers yet, and it may be some time before we do. In the meantime, please keep those impacted in your hearts.”

— Zeb Blais, Founder, Blackbird Mountain Guides (ksgf.com)

What’s next

Authorities are waiting for the severe winter storm to clear so they can recover the remaining bodies and continue their investigation into the causes of the deadly avalanche.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks in backcountry skiing, even for experienced guides and groups. It underscores the need for continued vigilance, safety protocols, and avalanche education to protect skiers in these remote, high-risk areas.