Truckee Mourns 8 Killed in Nevada County Avalanche

Community plans vigil as search continues for one presumed dead

Feb. 21, 2026 at 12:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Truckee community is in mourning after an avalanche in Nevada County claimed the lives of 8 people, with 1 person still presumed dead. The victims, described as experienced outdoor enthusiasts, included mothers, wives, and friends from the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee-Tahoe region. Neighbors remembered the victims as vibrant, friendly, and devoted to their families and community. As the search and rescue efforts continue, the town plans to honor those involved in the recovery operations.

Why it matters

Avalanche incidents are rare but devastating events that can deeply impact close-knit mountain communities like Truckee. This tragedy has left the town grappling with a profound sense of loss, raising questions about outdoor safety and the need for continued community support during times of crisis.

The details

The avalanche occurred in Nevada County, California, claiming the lives of 8 people, with 1 additional person presumed dead. The victims were experienced outdoor enthusiasts traveling together from the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee-Tahoe region. As crews continue working to retrieve the remaining victims, the Truckee community is coming together to support each other and honor those lost.

  • The avalanche occurred earlier this week in Nevada County, California.

The players

Anna Klovstad

The mayor of Truckee, California, who expressed the town's profound sense of loss and gratitude for the community's support during this tragedy.

Kate Vitt

A Truckee resident and devoted parent who was active in the community, remembered by neighbors as a "vibrant, friendly person" and "great mom."

Carleen Cullen

A Truckee resident who recalled seeing Kate Vitt with her children and described her as "super friendly" and a "great mom."

Jen Wofford

A Truckee resident who is grieving the loss of her neighbor, Caroline Sekar, who was also the sister of another victim, Liz Clabaugh. Wofford described Sekar as "just a wonderful human being" who was "full of love" and "a very vibrant person."

Sheryl Longman

A Truckee resident who remembered Kate Vitt as a "vibrant, friendly person devoted to her kids" who walked them to school in the morning.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are all experiencing a sense of loss, fear and anxiety.”

— Anna Klovstad, Mayor of Truckee

“Kate Vitt was a vibrant, friendly person devoted to her kids, who walked them to school in the morning.”

— Sheryl Longman, Truckee resident

“Jen Wofford described Caroline Sekar as 'just a wonderful human being,' adding that she "loved life and full of love, a very vibrant person.”

— Jen Wofford, Truckee resident

What’s next

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is conducting avalanche mitigation efforts to recover the remaining victims. The Truckee community plans to hold a vigil to honor those lost in the tragedy.

The takeaway

This devastating avalanche has left the tight-knit Truckee community in mourning, highlighting the importance of outdoor safety and the need for continued support during times of crisis. The town's resilience and compassion in the face of this tragedy serve as an inspiration for mountain communities everywhere.