The search and rescue took a grim turn at Lake Tahoe with at least 8 of the missing 9 skiers pronounced dead. The deadly avalanche struck earlier this week, hitting a group of 15.
One search and rescuer, John Gilchrist, is speaking out about the search conditions at Castle Peak after the avalanche. Search and rescue crews managed to save six people from Frog Lake. Sadly, eight are dead and one remains missing.
He said, "It is overwhelming how snow can bring both immense joy and such profound sadness. The heartbreak I feel is immeasurable. @reeciecup37 and I were not involved in the avalanche on Perry's near Castle Peak but did help with search and rescue operations. We are currently safe at the Frog Lake Huts."
Avalanche Kills 8
Meanwhile, ski resort Sugar Bowl revealed many of the deceased came from their community.
They said, "The Sugar Bowl community and the Donner Summit community are grieving the loss of multiple lives in the avalanche at Castle Peak. Multiple members of the Sugar Bowl Academy community and others with strong connections to Sugar Bowl, Donner Summit, and the backcountry community died in an avalanche on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
It continued, "Sugar Bowl Academy is focused on supporting its athletes, students, staff, and families through this tragedy. Most importantly, the Sugar Bowl Academy community will continue to be there in the months and years ahead for the families that have lost loved ones."
Executive Director Stephen McMahon also added, "We are an incredibly close and connected community. This tragedy has affected each and every one of us. The depth of support for the families whose lives have been changed forever reminds us of how special this community is. The best thing we can do is surround our athletes and families with care and support while providing the necessary space and time for grief and healing."
It's a tragedy.
