Families of six mothers killed in Tahoe avalanche break silence

The victims were experienced backcountry skiers on a guided trip when the tragedy occurred.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The families of six women who died in Tuesday's deadly avalanche in the Tahoe area have released a statement expressing their heartbreak and asking for privacy as they grieve the sudden and profound loss. The victims were part of a 15-person group on a professionally guided two-night backcountry ski trip when the avalanche struck, killing eight people and leaving one person missing. The families said the women were experienced, trained and prepared skiers who deeply respected the mountains.

Why it matters

The Tahoe region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but this tragic incident highlights the inherent risks and dangers of backcountry skiing, even for experienced skiers. The families' statement provides insight into who the victims were and the circumstances surrounding the deadly avalanche, raising questions about safety protocols and the role of professional guides in such activities.

The details

According to the families' statement, the group of eight "close friends" was on a professionally guided two-night backcountry ski trip when the avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday in the Castle Peak area north of Donner Pass. The slide was as big as a football field and buried multiple skiers. Six people survived and were rescued, while eight have been confirmed dead. A ninth person remains missing but is presumed to have also died. The families said the women were experienced, trained and prepared backcountry skiers who trusted their professional guides on the trip.

  • The avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The families released their statement on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Carrie Atkin

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Liz Clabaugh

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Danielle Keatley

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Kate Morse

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Caroline Sekar

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Kate Vitt

One of the six mothers killed in the Tahoe avalanche.

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who said the victims include some of his wife's friends from Marin County.

Shannan Moon

The Nevada County Sheriff, who said a ninth person remains missing but is presumed to have also died in the avalanche.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The local outfitter that confirmed their guides were on the ill-fated backcountry ski trip.

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What they’re saying

“The victims include some of my wife's friends from Marin County. This is concerning and disturbing, given the group was traveling with experienced guides.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (sfgate.com)

What’s next

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office has said it will continue rescue efforts to recover the victims' bodies and search for the missing ninth person, but the efforts have been hampered by continued heavy snow and high avalanche risk in the Tahoe area.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent dangers of backcountry skiing, even for experienced skiers with professional guides. It highlights the need for robust safety protocols, comprehensive avalanche education, and careful risk assessment when venturing into the mountains, as well as the profound impact such accidents can have on families and communities.