Tragedy Strikes as Avalanche Claims Eight Lives in California's Sierra Nevada
Published 19 February 2026
Highlights
- Eight skiers died in a devastating avalanche near Castle Peak in California's Sierra Nevada, with a ninth person presumed dead.
- Six victims, all women, were identified as part of a close-knit group of friends who frequently skied together.
- The avalanche, described as the deadliest in modern California history, occurred during the state's popular "ski week" holidays.
- Families of the victims expressed profound grief and emphasized the women's love for the outdoors and skiing.
- Rescue efforts continue, with emotional challenges as some rescuers have personal ties to the victims.
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Rewritten Article
Tragedy Strikes as Avalanche Claims Eight Lives in California's Sierra Nevada
A tragic avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada mountains has claimed the lives of eight skiers, with a ninth person still missing and presumed dead. The disaster unfolded near Castle Peak, a popular backcountry skiing destination, during the state's "ski week" holidays. The avalanche, which struck on Tuesday, is considered the deadliest in modern California history.
Close-Knit Community Mourns
Among the victims were six women identified as Caroline Sekar, Liz Clabaugh, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and Kate Vitt. These women, hailing from the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee-Tahoe region, were part of a close-knit group of friends who often embarked on ski excursions together. "We are devastated beyond words," the families expressed in a statement, highlighting the women's deep connection to the mountains and their shared passion for skiing.
Personal Stories Emerge
The tragedy has left a profound impact on the victims' families and communities. Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar, sisters from Boise, Idaho, and San Francisco, respectively, were remembered by their brother, McAlister Clabaugh, as "incredible sisters, mothers, wives, and friends." Sekar's husband, Kiren Sekar, described her as "authentic and unabashedly unfiltered," recalling her love for outdoor activities and her generous spirit.
Emotional Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations continue as authorities work to recover all victims. The emotional toll is significant, with some rescuers having personal connections to those who perished. Sheriff Wayne Woo of Placer County noted the challenges faced by teams, especially as one of the deceased was married to a member of the search-and-rescue team.
Community Support and Solidarity
The Sugar Bowl Academy, a ski school in Placer County, mourned the loss of its community members, emphasizing the close bonds within the skiing community. "This tragedy has affected each and every one of us," stated Stephen McMahon, the academy's executive director. The families have requested privacy as they navigate this period of immense grief.
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Scenario Analysis
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on recovering the missing individual and providing support to the grieving families. The tragedy has sparked discussions about avalanche safety and the risks associated with backcountry skiing, especially during peak holiday periods. Experts may call for enhanced safety measures and increased awareness among skiers to prevent future incidents. The emotional impact on the community is profound, with long-term support likely needed for those affected by this devastating event.
A tragic avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada mountains has claimed the lives of eight skiers, with a ninth person still missing and presumed dead. The disaster unfolded near Castle Peak, a popular backcountry skiing destination, during the state's "ski week" holidays. The avalanche, which struck on Tuesday, is considered the deadliest in modern California history.
Close-Knit Community Mourns
Among the victims were six women identified as Caroline Sekar, Liz Clabaugh, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and Kate Vitt. These women, hailing from the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee-Tahoe region, were part of a close-knit group of friends who often embarked on ski excursions together. "We are devastated beyond words," the families expressed in a statement, highlighting the women's deep connection to the mountains and their shared passion for skiing.
Personal Stories Emerge
The tragedy has left a profound impact on the victims' families and communities. Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar, sisters from Boise, Idaho, and San Francisco, respectively, were remembered by their brother, McAlister Clabaugh, as "incredible sisters, mothers, wives, and friends." Sekar's husband, Kiren Sekar, described her as "authentic and unabashedly unfiltered," recalling her love for outdoor activities and her generous spirit.
Emotional Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations continue as authorities work to recover all victims. The emotional toll is significant, with some rescuers having personal connections to those who perished. Sheriff Wayne Woo of Placer County noted the challenges faced by teams, especially as one of the deceased was married to a member of the search-and-rescue team.
Community Support and Solidarity
The Sugar Bowl Academy, a ski school in Placer County, mourned the loss of its community members, emphasizing the close bonds within the skiing community. "This tragedy has affected each and every one of us," stated Stephen McMahon, the academy's executive director. The families have requested privacy as they navigate this period of immense grief.
What this might mean
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on recovering the missing individual and providing support to the grieving families. The tragedy has sparked discussions about avalanche safety and the risks associated with backcountry skiing, especially during peak holiday periods. Experts may call for enhanced safety measures and increased awareness among skiers to prevent future incidents. The emotional impact on the community is profound, with long-term support likely needed for those affected by this devastating event.
