Six Castle Peak avalanche victims identified

Families say the victims were passionate, skilled skiers who cherished time in the mountains

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Six of the eight people confirmed dead in an avalanche earlier this week in the Sierra Nevada have been identified as Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar and Kate Vitt. The victims' families released a statement saying they were all mothers, wives and friends who connected through their love of the outdoors and were passionate, skilled skiers.

Why it matters

Avalanche incidents in the Sierra Nevada are relatively rare but can be devastating when they occur, especially in popular ski areas like Castle Peak. This tragedy has shaken the local community and highlights the risks inherent in outdoor recreation, even for experienced skiers.

The details

The avalanche occurred earlier this week in the Castle Peak area near Truckee, California. Eight people were confirmed dead, and six of the victims have now been identified by their families. The victims were described as close-knit friends and skilled outdoor enthusiasts who regularly skied together in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

  • The avalanche occurred earlier this week in the Sierra Nevada.
  • The victims were identified by their families on Thursday afternoon.

The players

Carrie Atkin

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

Liz Clabaugh

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

Danielle Keatley

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

Kate Morse

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

Caroline Sekar

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

Kate Vitt

One of the six victims identified in the Castle Peak avalanche.

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The takeaway

This tragic avalanche incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in outdoor recreation, even for experienced enthusiasts. The close-knit community is mourning the loss of these passionate skiers who shared a love of the mountains.