Vigil Held for Avalanche Victims in Lake Tahoe

On Sunday night, a somber vigil took place in memory of the victims of the recent avalanche in Lake Tahoe.

In Truckee’s historic downtown, volunteers have set up a poignant memorial to honor those lost in the tragic Castle Peak incident.

The avalanche last Tuesday resulted in nine fatalities, marking it as the deadliest avalanche event in California recorded history.

The victims include six mothers: Carrie Atkin, Kate Morse, Danielle Keatley, Caroline Sekar, Kate Witt, and Liz Klobaugh, along with three tour guides—Michael Henry, Andrew Alisandratos, and Nicole Chu—who were all affiliated with Blackbird Mountain Guides.

Bolin Hubby, a close friend of Morse, shared her sorrow during the candlelight vigil. “We were colleagues at Vir Biotechnology first and then friends,” she said, voice thick with emotion.

Morse’s husband also spoke, his voice breaking. “She was just the most amazing person, friend, wife, and mother. It’s truly a tragedy. She cared deeply about the friends with her that day.”

Earlier that day, nine “hearts of mercy,” each bearing the name of a victim, were placed under an eagle statue near the vigil’s site.

James Krasner, 72, a volunteer from Lutheran Charities, noted the overwhelming sense of loss in the community and emphasized the significance of recognizing those who were taken too soon. “It’s a space for grief, a place to share it with others,” he observed.

Krasner’s organization has a history of offering support during trying times, utilizing comfort dogs to provide solace. He reflected on the heart-wrenching atmosphere, mentioning how the hearts and pens for messages aim to bring comfort in such sorrowful times.

Crowds gathered in Truckee that evening to light candles and share tears in remembrance of those who perished.

“This feels like my community. I grew up here,” Krasner mentioned, recalling his roots in Grass Valley. His volunteer group has been active in many crises across the country, including shootings and natural disasters.

He added that such memorials often serve as community hubs where people can come together to grieve and support one another. Krasner, a military veteran, expressed the importance of offering compassion during these painful times.

Local church leaders in Truckee have sought assistance from the Lutheran Charities, reflecting the community’s ongoing struggle to process this unexpected loss.

Volunteer Bobby Moore, 52, traveled from Sacramento with his 7-year-old golden retriever, Rahab, to lend support. “Our dogs arrive quickly, usually within 24 hours,” he explained. “We respond to all sorts of disasters, be they natural or man-made.”