California avalanche killed parents linked to Sugar Bowl Academy

Officials say nine people died in a Sierra Nevada avalanche that included parents connected to Sugar Bowl Academy; crews recovered eight bodies and search and recovery efforts continue while investigators review whether the trip proceeded after storm and avalanche warnings.

An avalanche struck a group of backcountry skiers near Castle Peak in Northern California's Sierra Nevada, killing nine people. Sugar Bowl Academy confirmed several victims had strong ties to the academy and the local backcountry community. The outing was a parent-organized trip led by Blackbird Mountain Guides and took place during a powerful winter storm. Officials said investigations will examine decisions made about proceeding amid issued avalanche watches and warnings. Known details: - Officials reported nine people were caught in the avalanche; crews recovered eight bodies and one person remained missing and presumed dead. - Several victims were described as parents connected to Sugar Bowl Academy and were on a guided backcountry trip led by Blackbird Mountain Guides. - The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued a watch that was later elevated to a warning before the group's return trek, and authorities said investigators will review whether the change was known to the guides. - Six people were rescued; at least one survivor remained hospitalized, and the guiding company announced it paused field operations while launching an internal investigation. Summary: The deaths have deeply affected the Sugar Bowl and Donner Summit community and surrounding areas. Recovery efforts are ongoing as weather conditions allow, and investigators are reviewing the circumstances of the trip and the timing of official avalanche notices. Further findings and any official identifications have not yet been released.