Devastating Avalanche in Sierra Nevada
A recent avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains, near Lake Tahoe, California, has resulted in a tragic loss of life. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, claimed the lives of at least six individuals, who have been identified as part of a group of mothers with a shared passion for outdoor adventures.
Victims Identified
The families of the victims have released a joint statement identifying the women as Kate Vitt, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and sisters Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh. These women were known for their love of the outdoors and their close-knit friendship.
“We are devastated beyond words,” the families expressed in their statement. They emphasized their current focus on supporting their children and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women.
Experienced Skiers
The group of women were seasoned backcountry skiers, well-prepared and equipped with avalanche safety gear. They were described as passionate and skilled, with a deep appreciation for spending time in the mountains.
The women resided in various locations, including the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee–Tahoe region. Their shared experiences in the mountains had forged strong bonds among them.
Community Impact
The tragedy has deeply affected the communities connected to the victims. Several of the women had ties to Sugar Bowl Academy, a prestigious institution for competitive skiers and snowboarders. The academy’s Executive Director, Stephen McMahon, highlighted the profound impact on the community and the overwhelming support for the affected families.
Shift from Rescue to Recovery
Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon announced that the mission had shifted from rescue to recovery. The avalanche struck while the group was returning to their camp, making it challenging for search and rescue teams to locate survivors.
Authorities have described the incident as the deadliest avalanche in California’s history. The group involved 15 backcountry skiers, including 11 clients and four guides, who were on a guided expedition organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides.
Remembering the Victims
Among the victims, Liz Clabaugh worked as a graduate nurse residency program coordinator at St. Luke’s Health System in Boise, Idaho. Kate Vitt, a resident of San Francisco, held positions at SiriusXM and Pandora. Both women were mothers, leaving behind children who now face the future without them.
The families of the victims are heartbroken but are committed to supporting each other and their children in the way they believe the mothers would have wanted.
Related Coverage
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