San José State University Graduate Is Found Dead in Tree Well at Lake Tahoe Resort

NYT Homepage

by Aimee Ortiz

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A recent graduate of San José State University, 21-year-old Colin Kang, was found dead in a tree well while skiing at Northstar California Resort in Truckee, Calif. His disappearance began on Tuesday when he did not return from a black diamond trail, prompting an extensive search effort by the Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team and local authorities. The Placer County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his identity and stated that he fell into a tree well—a hidden hazard caused by accumulated snow around trees—which can trap skiers and lead to fatal consequences. While the exact cause of his death is still under investigation, his tragic passing highlights the dangers associated with skiing in challenging terrain. Tree wells are natural hazards commonly found in snowy areas, including ski resorts. These formations occur when snow piles up around tree trunks, creating a hollow space underneath that remains untouched and poses significant risks to skiers. Skiers who fall into deep tree wells can become trapped, as the surrounding snow may collapse or block rescue attempts. Such incidents are particularly dangerous in remote or difficult-to-reach areas, like black diamond trails designed for expert skiers. The search for Kang involved a coordinated effort by multiple teams, including the Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team, who deployed over a dozen skiers, a snowcat, and two snowmobilers to locate him. His car was found in the resort’s parking lot, and he was last seen near the Martis Camp Express ski lift. The incident occurred just days after an avalanche killed at least eight people in the region, drawing attention to the inherent risks of skiing in snowy backcountry areas. This tragic event comes amid heightened awareness of skiing safety and avalanche risks. While Kang’s death is unrelated to the recent avalanche, it underscores the importance of understanding and mitigating dangers associated with winter sports. Authorities encourage skiers to remain cautious and aware of potential hazards like tree wells, especially in challenging or remote locations. The incident also highlights the need for preparedness and safety measures when engaging in outdoor activities in snowy environments.

Verticals

newsgeneral

Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026