A devastating avalanche in the Sierra Nevada near Lake Tahoe has become one of the deadliest winter disasters in the United States in decades. As authorities continue recovery efforts, families are sharing details about several of the lives lost.
At least eight people have been confirmed dead following the backcountry skiing accident, with one additional skier still missing and presumed deceased. Officials say the avalanche struck during a guided multi-day expedition involving 15 experienced skiers near Castle Peak.
Among the victims were six close friends — all mothers — who shared a deep bond rooted in family, friendship, and a love for outdoor adventure.
A Group United by Family and Skiing
In a joint statement, families identified the women as:
- Kate Vitt
- Carrie Atkin
- Danielle Keatley
- Kate Morse
- Caroline Sekar
- Liz Clabaugh
Loved ones described them as inseparable companions who prioritized both their families and their shared passion for backcountry skiing.
“We are devastated beyond words,” the families said. “Right now, our focus is supporting our children through this unimaginable tragedy and honoring the extraordinary lives of these women.”
Many of the women lived in California, Idaho, and the Truckee–Tahoe region. They were experienced skiers equipped with avalanche safety gear, reflecting their preparation and respect for mountain conditions.
Family members emphasized that their connection extended far beyond recreational travel. They were mothers, wives, professionals, and long-time friends who intentionally carved out time together in nature.
What Authorities Have Confirmed
According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, the avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time as the group was returning to camp.
Sheriff Shannan Moon confirmed that search operations transitioned from rescue to recovery after several hours, as severe weather conditions and unstable snowpack complicated efforts.
The slide near Castle Peak is being described as the deadliest avalanche in California history and the most lethal in the United States since 1981.
Public access to the affected area has been temporarily closed to protect first responders and allow recovery teams to work safely.
Remembering the Women Behind the Headlines
Among those lost was Kate Vitt, a Marin County mother of two and former executive at SiriusXM. Community members have expressed shock and heartbreak while rallying around her family.
Caroline Sekar, a 45-year-old mother from San Francisco, died alongside her sister Liz Clabaugh, 52, a Boise-based graduate nurse residency coordinator. Their brother shared his grief publicly, describing them as “incredible sisters, mothers, wives and friends.”
Several members of the group were also connected to Sugar Bowl Academy, a competitive ski school community that is now mourning the loss.
Executive Director Stephen McMahon said the tragedy has deeply affected the academy and surrounding mountain community, highlighting the strength of support for the impacted families.
Community Support and Ongoing Recovery
The avalanche triggered a large-scale emergency response involving Nevada County Search and Rescue, Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue, and multiple regional agencies.
Families expressed gratitude for the coordinated rescue efforts and the outpouring of support from across the Lake Tahoe area and beyond.
Still, the grief remains profound.
In their statement, families said they are leaning on one another and focusing on caring for their children in the way these women would have wanted — with compassion, strength, and unity.
A Sobering Reminder of Mountain Risk
Backcountry skiing is a beloved winter sport in the Sierra Nevada region, but experts regularly emphasize the importance of avalanche awareness, real-time weather monitoring, and safety training. Even experienced and well-equipped groups can face unpredictable natural forces.
As recovery operations continue, communities across California, Idaho, and Nevada are honoring the memory of six women whose lives were defined by family devotion, friendship, and a shared love of the mountains.
Their legacy lives on in the families and communities they helped build — and in the deep bonds they carried with them into the outdoors.
