Rescuers in California have recovered the body of the ninth and final person missing in an avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the local sheriff’s office confirmed.
The avalanche struck Castle Peak, near the Lake Tahoe area, on Tuesday, catching a group of 15 skiers, including four guides and 11 paying clients. Out of the group, six people survived, making the incident one of the deadliest avalanches in recent US history.
“Nine individuals who lost their lives in the Castle Peak avalanche on 17 February have been safely recovered from the mountain,” the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
Sheriff Shannan Moon expressed condolences to the victims’ families, stating, “There are no words that truly capture the significance of this loss and our hearts mourn alongside the families of those affected by this catastrophic event.”
Officials had warned on Thursday that search operations would extend into the weekend due to inclement weather and challenging conditions. Heavy snowfall, white-out visibility, and the ongoing threat of further slides complicated recovery efforts, forcing rescue teams to proceed cautiously.
The six survivors, including five clients and one guide, were able to call for help soon after the avalanche occurred. However, the combination of poor visibility and hazardous terrain delayed rescue teams for several hours.
Late on Thursday, families of six victims released a statement identifying them as women described as “mothers, wives and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors.” They were remembered as “passionate, skilled skiers who cherished time together in the mountains,” though families acknowledged that many questions about the tragedy remain unanswered.
The Sierra Nevada region had been under avalanche warnings at the time of the incident, with authorities urging caution for all backcountry skiers. Rescue teams from local and state agencies worked through dangerous conditions to locate and recover the missing.
Officials emphasized the importance of safety and preparedness in avalanche-prone areas, noting that even experienced skiers can face life-threatening risks when conditions deteriorate rapidly. The Castle Peak tragedy has prompted renewed discussions about avalanche awareness and emergency response in high-risk recreational areas.
Rescue crews are continuing to monitor the area for further hazards, while local authorities and outdoor groups are offering support to families and friends affected by the loss. The community has expressed solidarity with the victims and survivors, highlighting the shared impact of the avalanche on those who enjoy winter sports in the Lake Tahoe region.news
