Two Sisters and a Radio Executive Among Eight Confirmed Victims Who Passed Away in a Sierra Nevada Avalanche

A guided backcountry ski trip near Truckee turned deadly when an avalanche struck the Sierra Nevada, triggering a large-scale rescue effort in hazardous winter conditions.

Eight people died after an avalanche struck the Castle Peak area near Truckee at about 11:30 a.m. on February 17, 2026, authorities said. The slide hit a guided group of skiers in the Lake Tahoe region.

Rescue crews worked for hours in severe weather to reach survivors. As conditions improved, officials and family members began confirming the identities of those who did not survive.

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office said 15 people were on the trip, including four guides. Six survived and were directed to shelter in place until 46 emergency responders reached them; two were transported to a hospital.

The Sierra Avalanche Center had warned early Tuesday that "HIGH avalanche danger" existed in the backcountry and that large avalanches were expected.

Among those killed were sisters Caroline Sekar, 45, of San Francisco, and Liz Clabaugh, 52, of Boise, according to The New York Times. Their sister, McAlister Clabaugh, said they died in the avalanche.

Also killed was Kate Vitt, a radio executive and mother of two. The Kentfield School District wrote to families, "Kate's two sons are safe and are with their father, Geoff, as they navigate this profound loss."

Authorities said the incident remains under investigation. The Sierra Avalanche Center warning remained in effect through Wednesday morning.