Final California avalanche victim found dead after search
BBC World
February 22, 2026
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Final Missing Skier Found Dead After California Avalanche
In a tragic conclusion to one of California's deadliest avalanches, authorities have recovered the ninth and final victim five days after the disaster struck near Lake Tahoe. The avalanche, described as football-field sized, claimed the lives of six women and three experienced guides in what has been called the worst such event in state history. Two survivors from the group may provide crucial insights into the incident, which occurred during a backcountry ski trip.
The victims included close friends, relatives, and professional guides. Among those who lost their lives were Carrie Atkin, 46; Lizabeth Clabaugh, 52; Danielle Keatley, 44; Kate Morse, 45; Caroline Sekar, 45; and Katherine Vitt, 43—all skilled skiers from across the U.S. The three guides who perished were Andrew Alissandratos, 34; Nicole Choo, 42; and Michael Henry, 30.
Rescue efforts were hampered by harsh weather conditions, including white-out snowstorms and high winds, which delayed the use of helicopters for days. Once skies cleared, authorities used water-dumping tactics to stabilize the avalanche risk before searching for the final missing skier. Sheriff Shannan Moon described the disaster's scale and power, noting that it nearly buried an entire house.
The group had been on a guided three-day trip when the avalanche struck with eight feet of snow and 90 mph winds. Survivors recounted the frantic efforts to dig out their friends, though only three individuals were ultimately found alive. Authorities are now investigating whether criminal negligence played a role in the tragedy, raising questions about safety protocols for backcountry adventures.
This devastating event highlights the dangers of skiing in remote, avalanche-prone areas and underscores the importance of preparedness. For readers interested in outdoor activities
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026