Tragic Avalanche Claims 8 Lives Near Lake Tahoe, Including Sugar Bowl Ski Academy Parents
By Perplexity News Staff
Donner Summit, CA – A devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, has left a tight-knit skiing community in mourning after claiming the lives of eight people, including several parents connected to the Sugar Bowl Academy ski program[1]. One person remains missing and presumed dead, marking one of the deadliest avalanche incidents in recent California history.
Details of the Catastrophic Event
The avalanche struck at the conclusion of a three-day guided backcountry ski trip involving 15 participants. Emergency responders battled extreme conditions to reach the site, where six survivors – four men and two women – had taken shelter under a tarp for several hours[1]. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that of the nine dead and missing individuals, seven were women and two were men[1].
“Highly dangerous” conditions hampered initial rescue efforts, but crews persevered to recover the victims. Authorities have withheld the identities of both the deceased and survivors out of respect for the families, as stated by the Sugar Bowl Academy in an official release[1].
Sugar Bowl Academy Community Devastated
Sugar Bowl Academy, a prestigious private boarding and day school tailored for competitive young skiers, issued a heartfelt statement acknowledging the profound loss. “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,” the school announced[1].
Sources close to the search and rescue operation revealed that most of the victims and survivors were parents whose children attend the academy. The students were on winter break at the time, sparing them direct involvement in the trip[1]. The academy emphasized its commitment to supporting affected athletes, students, staff, and families in the long term.
“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.” – Sugar Bowl Academy Statement[1]
Rescue Operation Amid Perilous Conditions
The incident unfolded in the rugged terrain of Donner Summit, a popular backcountry area near Lake Tahoe known for its challenging slopes and unpredictable weather. The group was on a guided excursion when the massive snow slide buried multiple skiers[1].
Responders from the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies worked tirelessly, recovering eight bodies by Wednesday. The sole remaining missing person is presumed dead, though recovery efforts continue. The six survivors endured hours in sub-zero temperatures and hazardous avalanche terrain before being airlifted to safety[1].
Broader Impact on Tahoe’s Backcountry Scene
This tragedy underscores the inherent risks of backcountry skiing, even for experienced groups on guided trips. Donner Summit and the Sugar Bowl area have long been hubs for elite skiers, attracting families dedicated to nurturing young talents through programs like Sugar Bowl Academy.
The academy’s unique model combines rigorous academic education with world-class ski training, producing competitive athletes who compete nationally and internationally. The loss of parents deeply embedded in this community has sent shockwaves through the program, prompting an outpouring of support from fellow skiers, schools, and avalanche safety organizations.
Investigations and Safety Warnings
While the exact trigger of the avalanche remains under investigation, officials have renewed warnings about backcountry travel during periods of high avalanche risk. Recent storms in the Sierra Nevada have loaded slopes with heavy snow, creating unstable layers prone to slides.
The California Avalanche Information Center and other experts are likely to review the incident to refine forecasting models and safety protocols. Guided trips, though safer than solo ventures, are not immune to nature’s fury, as this event painfully demonstrates.
Community Response and Tributes
Mourners have begun gathering virtually and in person to honor the victims. Social media is flooded with tributes highlighting the victims’ passion for skiing and their roles as devoted parents. Sugar Bowl Resort and neighboring ski areas have lowered flags and offered counseling services.
“The backcountry community is small and interconnected. This loss touches everyone,” noted one longtime Donner Summit skier, speaking anonymously to respect the families’ privacy.
Looking Ahead: Resilience in the Face of Loss
As recovery operations wrap up, attention turns to healing. Sugar Bowl Academy plans to resume classes with enhanced emotional support, ensuring students can process their grief while honoring their parents’ legacies on the slopes.
This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the perils lurking in paradise. Yet, the Tahoe skiing community’s storied resilience – forged through decades of triumphs and tragedies – will undoubtedly shine through in the days ahead.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from authorities and the Sugar Bowl Academy.