Officials probe possible criminal negligence after deadly avalanche near Lake Tahoe

February 21, 2026

TL;DR

At least eight skiers died in an avalanche near Castle Peak, north of Lake Tahoe.
Authorities are investigating possible criminal negligence by the guide company, Blackbird Mountain Guides.
The group of 11 skiers and four guides was on a three-day trip during a severe storm.
An avalanche warning was issued on the morning of the incident, indicating 'HIGH avalanche danger'.
One skier remains missing and presumed dead.
Six skiers were rescued with varying injuries; two required hospitalization.
This is the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. since 1981.

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