Survivors of a tragic avalanche near Lake Tahoe attempted to rescue their friends from the heavy snow, according to reports.
Nevada County Deputy Sheriff Sam Brown mentioned on Thursday that while the group managed to pull out three individuals, unfortunately, none of them survived.
The state of California offered condolences after the avalanche on Tuesday claimed the lives of eight people, with one person still unaccounted for and presumed dead.
So far, six of the deceased women have been identified: Carrie Atkin, Kate Morse, Danielle Keetley, Caroline Sekar, Kate Witt, and Liz Klobaugh.
Following the avalanche, six other individuals, including five women and one man aged between 30 to 55, were rescued from the mountain.
Brown detailed the chaotic scene during the incident, stating that the group appeared to be in “a frantic state.” He expressed that they were desperately searching for their friends and partners, managing to unearth the bodies of the three who did not make it.
He added that it was horrifying for those survivors to confront the reality of their deceased companions, likely people they knew and cared about.
Brown stated that Castle Peak experienced 8 feet of snow along with winds hitting 90 mph, catching backcountry skiers and their guides off guard.
He provided updates on the rescue efforts, mentioning that teams are still on the mountain, trying to carve a path for more rescuers to come in.
According to Brown, two rescue teams were sent from different directions, with additional help prepared in case of another avalanche.
The families of the six women who died shared their heartache on Thursday, expressing disbelief over the tragic news.
They said, “We are devastated beyond words. Our focus now is to support the children through this incredible tragedy and honor the lives of these extraordinary women.”
“Each of them was a mother, a wife, and a friend, all brought together by their love for the outdoors. They were skilled skiers who cherished moments spent together in the mountains, residing in the Bay Area and Truckee-Tahoe regions of Idaho.”
Family members have offered more insights into the circumstances leading up to the unfortunate trip, highlighting that there are still many questions left unanswered.
They shared that the group of eight close friends had organized a professionally guided backcountry hut trip to Frog Lake Hut near Truckee, California, planned long in advance. They were experienced skiers with a strong respect for nature.
Relatives emphasized that they were fully equipped with avalanche safety gear for their trip, relying on their professional guides.
While grieving, the families are striving to support each other, reflecting how the women would have wished.
Heartfelt online tributes from friends have characterized the group as “supermoms.” Rescuers indicated that poor mountain conditions on Thursday hindered efforts to recover the bodies of the victims.
