Crews recover bodies of 9 backcountry skiers days after California avalanche

Published: Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 12:18 am

Backcountry Skiers Recovered After Deadly California Avalanche

TRUCKEE, Calif. - Rescue teams have concluded the recovery of nine backcountry skiers who perished in an avalanche in California. The operation, which spanned several days, was hampered by heavy snowfall and challenging conditions.

The avalanche occurred on Tuesday, claiming the lives of the skiers. Search and rescue efforts were initiated immediately, but the severity of the weather and the risk of further avalanches significantly delayed the recovery process. The bodies of the victims were located near Castle Peak.

Among the deceased were three guides from Blackbird Mountain Company: Andrew Alissandratos, Nicole Choo, and Michael Henry. The other six victims were women, part of a close-knit group of friends who were experienced backcountry skiers. The families of the victims have expressed their devastation and requested privacy as they grieve.

The group of 15 skiers, including 11 skiers and four guides, were on a three-day tour when the avalanche struck. The survivors, who included two skiers and one guide, were able to call for help. The rescue teams faced significant challenges, including white-out conditions and the threat of further avalanches.

The recovery operation involved multiple agencies, including the Nevada County Sheriff's Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the California National Guard. Helicopters were used to break up the snowpack and recover the bodies. The area will remain closed to visitors until mid-March.

BNN's Perspective: This tragic event underscores the inherent risks associated with backcountry skiing, even for experienced individuals. While the community's response and the efforts of the rescue teams are commendable, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of assessing conditions and prioritizing safety in the mountains.

Keywords: California avalanche, backcountry skiers, Castle Peak, Nevada County, search and rescue, avalanche recovery, Blackbird Mountain Company, Andrew Alissandratos, Nicole Choo, Michael Henry, Sierra Nevada, Tahoe National Forest, avalanche safety, mountain tragedy, winter sports, skiing accident.

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