Deadly Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe Claims Lives of 6 Outdoor-Loving Mothers

Victims were part of a group of seasoned backcountry skiers who regularly traveled together

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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At least six victims have been identified in the tragic avalanche incident on Tuesday that killed up to nine people in Sierra Nevada, near Lake Tahoe, California. The victims were among a group of outdoor-loving mothers who regularly traveled together, described as "mothers, wives, and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors." The group was reportedly well-trained and equipped with avalanche safety gear when the deadly slide occurred.

Why it matters

The avalanche near Lake Tahoe has become the deadliest in California's history, highlighting the risks and dangers associated with backcountry skiing, even for experienced groups. The tragedy has deeply impacted the tight-knit Tahoe community and raised questions about safety protocols and rescue operations in remote mountain environments.

The details

The group of six victims were identified as Kate Vitt, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and sisters Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh. They were part of a larger group of 15 backcountry skiers, including 11 clients and 4 guides, on a multi-day expedition organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides. The avalanche occurred as the group was returning to their camp, with search and rescue crews taking hours to locate the first few survivors.

  • The avalanche incident occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Authorities announced on Thursday, February 20, 2026 that all National Forest lands and trails around Castle Peak will be closed for roughly one month, from Feb. 20 through March 15, to continue recovery efforts for the final missing individual.

The players

Kate Vitt

A San Francisco resident who held positions at SiriusXM and Pandora.

Caroline Sekar

A 45-year-old mother of two who lived in San Francisco.

Liz Clabaugh

A 52-year-old who served as a graduate nurse residency program coordinator at St. Luke's Health System in Boise, Idaho.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The organization that organized the multi-day guided expedition where the avalanche occurred.

Nevada County Search and Rescue

The search and rescue team that responded to the incident.

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What they’re saying

“We are devastated beyond words. Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women.”

— Affected Families

“They were passionate, skilled skiers who cherished time together in the mountains.”

— Affected Families

“This tragedy has affected each and every one of us. The depth of support for the families whose lives have been changed forever reminds us of how special this community is.”

— Stephen McMahon, Executive Director, Sugar Bowl Academy

What’s next

To continue recovery efforts for the final missing individual, authorities announced that all National Forest lands and trails around Castle Peak will be closed for roughly one month, from Feb. 20 through March 15.

The takeaway

This tragic avalanche near Lake Tahoe has highlighted the inherent risks of backcountry skiing, even for experienced groups, and the importance of robust safety protocols and emergency response capabilities in remote mountain environments. The community is rallying to support the affected families and honor the lives of the outdoor-loving mothers who perished in this devastating incident.