Authorities Probe Possible Criminal Negligence in California Avalanche Deaths

Eight killed, one presumed dead in deadliest U.S. avalanche in 45 years

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Investigators are working to determine if criminal negligence played a role in the avalanche that killed at least eight people on a guided backcountry ski trip in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is conducting a parallel investigation alongside the coroner's death investigations, but cautioned it is too early to name any specific targets for potential charges.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the inherent risks and safety concerns associated with guided backcountry skiing trips, especially in areas with high avalanche danger. The investigation will examine whether the tour company, Blackbird Mountain Guides, took adequate precautions to protect its clients and if any negligence contributed to the tragedy.

The details

A group of 15 skiers, including four guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides, were heading back to a trailhead in heavy snow after a three-day excursion when the avalanche struck. Eight people were killed and a ninth was presumed to have died. Three of the guides were among those killed. Six survivors were rescued from the rugged Castle Peak area near Truckee, California.

  • The avalanche occurred on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The investigation by the Nevada County Sheriff's Office is in the preliminary stages.

The players

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency conducting a parallel investigation into whether criminal negligence was involved in the avalanche incident.

Nevada County District Attorney's Office

The office that would decide on any possible charges related to the incident.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The tour company that organized the backcountry ski trip where the avalanche occurred. The company was founded in 2020 and provides guided ski trips, alpine climbing trips, and avalanche education.

Zeb Blais

The founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides, who mourned the loss of life and stated that all the guides on the trip were highly trained in backcountry skiing and avalanche education.

Frank Carus

The director of the Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center in Wyoming and a former backcountry ski guide, who urged caution in drawing conclusions before the investigation is complete.

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What they’re saying

“There is still a lot we're learning about what happened. It's too soon to draw conclusions, but investigations are underway.”

— Zeb Blais, Founder, Blackbird Mountain Guides (Written statement)

“The main thing here is not to rush to judgment. The worst thing to do is to blame or shame before the facts are known.”

— Frank Carus, Director, Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center (Reuters)

What’s next

The Nevada County District Attorney's Office will determine if any charges will be filed based on the findings of the investigation by the Nevada County Sheriff's Office.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of thorough safety protocols and risk management in the backcountry skiing industry, as well as the need for a comprehensive investigation to understand the factors that contributed to this devastating avalanche.