Authorities are investigating potential criminal negligence linked to a deadly avalanche in Lake Tahoe, California, which killed at least eight skiers and guides during a backcountry ski trip. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office has notified OSHA and is examining whether criminal charges may arise. This avalanche marks one of the deadliest in California’s modern history, with one skier still missing and presumed dead.
Blackbird Mountain Guides, which employed the ski guides, reported that three guides died and expressed deep condolences for the tragedy. The group of 15 skiers was returning from a trip that started when an avalanche warning was already in effect, and guides seemed aware of the dangerous conditions. Sheriff Shannan Moon indicated that the investigation will also explore why the ski trip was not canceled despite the warnings.
Six survivors were rescued, while recovery efforts for the victims are hampered by severe weather. As ongoing recovery operations continue, the identities of the deceased have begun to be confirmed, and an avalanche mitigation strategy involving controlled explosive deployment is in place to reduce risks in the area.
Source link
