Bodies of all 9 skiers killed in devastating avalanche recovered - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Tony BriscoeFebruary 22, 2026
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California search-and-rescue teams have successfully recovered the bodies of all nine skiers killed in a devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada region. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday during a powerful atmospheric river storm that dumped several feet of snow, triggering the deadliest avalanche in modern California history. Among the victims were six skiers and three professional mountain guides. The recovery operation involved extensive efforts by law enforcement and rescue teams navigating treacherous conditions, including deep snowpack and high winds. After five days of searching, authorities found the ninth missing skier, marking a somber conclusion to the disaster.
The avalanche struck a group of 15 skiers, including four mountain guides, who were caught in the remote area near Frog Lake Backcountry Huts. Within hours of the avalanche, six survivors were rescued, while eight deceased skiers were initially found. Due to hazardous weather conditions, search operations were temporarily suspended, leaving one skier's body undiscovered until authorities resumed efforts later in the week. The recovery mission involved a multi-agency collaboration, including the California Highway Patrol, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, and the California National Guard.
The victims were identified as Andrew Alissandratos, 34; Carrie Atkin, 46; Nicole Choo, 42; Lizabeth Clabaugh, 52; Michael Henry, 30; Danielle Keatley, 44; Kate Morse, 45; Caroline Sekar, 45; and Katherine Vitt, 43. Authorities expressed deep condolences for the families of those lost, calling the event a catastrophic disaster with far-reaching impact
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/22/2026