California Avalanche Claims Nine Lives, Criminal Investigation Launched

A backcountry avalanche near Castle Peak in the Tahoe National Forest, California, has claimed the lives of nine skiers, with a criminal investigation now underway to determine if negligence played a role in the tragedy. The incident, which occurred on February 17, 2026, involved a group of 15 skiers – four guides and eleven clients – on a three-day guided ski tour to the Frog Lake huts.

Avalanche Details and Rescue Efforts

The avalanche, described as roughly the size of a football field, swept over the group as they were descending on the final day of their trip. Six skiers were able to survive by constructing a makeshift shelter using tarpaulin sheets and communicating with rescuers via iPhone emergency mode. Rescuers from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and Tahoe Donner Alder Creek Adventure Center, comprising a multi-agency response of about 46 personnel, reached the survivors after hours of challenging work [1].

The bodies of the eight deceased skiers were recovered over the following days, with the final body recovered on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The victims include seven women and two men, ranging in age from 30 to 52, including three guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides [2].

Investigation into Potential Negligence

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office has opened a criminal investigation into the incident, seeking to determine if any criminal negligence contributed to the tragedy [1]. Cal-OSHA is as well investigating the actions of Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company leading the ski tour [2].

Authorities are questioning why the group proceeded with their descent despite avalanche warnings issued by the Sierra Avalanche Center for that day and avalanche watches in the preceding days [1]. Sheriff Shannan Moon stated that officials have preliminary information but need more time to fully understand the events leading up to the avalanche [2].

Avalanche Conditions and History

The avalanche was classified as D2.5, strong enough to knock down a person, almost strong enough to knock down a house [2]. Winter storm conditions with heavy snowfall complicated both the rescue efforts and the overall risk of further avalanches. The area had experienced significant snowfall, contributing to the high avalanche danger.

While the Sierra Nevada region has seen serious avalanches in the past, this event is one of the deadliest in recent US history. In March 1982, seven people were killed in an avalanche at a ski resort in the Lake Tahoe area [1].