Officials investigate deadly California avalanche for possible criminal negligence
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Authorities are investigating potential criminal negligence in the deadly Lake Tahoe avalanche that killed at least eight skiers and their guides during a backcountry trip, with OSHA notified of the ongoing probe.
- The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is examining why the ski trip was not canceled despite avalanche warnings, and the district attorney will decide if criminal charges are warranted.
- Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company employing the deceased guides, confirmed three employee deaths and one survivor, expressing deep sorrow and emphasizing ongoing investigations.
- Six of the 15 skiers survived and were rescued, but adverse weather and avalanche risks have delayed recovery efforts and victim identification.
- The avalanche is the deadliest in California's modern history, with one skier still missing and presumed dead as authorities continue their search
