US EditionSki guides in spotlight as investigators probe deadly California avalanche
Authorities are investigating if guides or company ignored avalanche warnings during a severe storm that killed eight and left one missing, the deadliest U.S. avalanche since 1981.
- Near Castle Peak, a large avalanche struck a guided group on Tuesday, Feb. 17, killing nine people , in the deadliest U.S. avalanche since 1981.
- The three-day trip began Sunday as storm warnings intensified, and investigators are probing why the tour continued with 11 clients and four guides amid avalanche watches and warnings.
- Families said the six clients were experienced backcountry skiers who carried safety gear and trusted the four guides, all certified instructors with AMGA and AIARE.
- The Nevada County Sheriff's Office said Friday it is investigating whether criminal negligence occurred, launching a standard criminal investigation while Cal/OSHA opened a workplace-safety review; officials said no charges are determined yet.
- Tahoe National Forest has closed Castle Peak through March 15, and Blackbird has suspended operations through Feb. 22, while community vigils and support sessions are scheduled, including a candlelight vigil on February 22.
72 Articles
72 Articles
The Oakland Press
News-HeraldDeadly California avalanche highlights inherent risks in the backcountry
By MATTHEW BROWN The Associated Presss The recovery of skiers killed in the deadliest U.S. avalanche in almost 45 years is dragging out because of what experts say is a prime rule for rescuers: Don’t make yourself a victim. A storm that continued lashing California’s remote Sierra Nevada wilderness Thursday meant more avalanches were possible in the backcountry area where authorities said eight people died and one was still missing two days afte…
Police probe actions of tour company in deadly avalanche
TRUCKEE, Calif. — Authorities investigating the deadly avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada will look at whether criminal negligence played a role in the tragedy, a sheriff's office leading one of several investigations said Friday.
Ski guides in spotlight as investigators probe deadly California avala
An investigation to determine if backcountry guides were criminally negligent during a California ski trip that ended with eight people killed in an avalanche and another presumed dead has surprised legal experts, who said the probe has scant precedent. Backcountry tour clients typically sign waivers of liability that shield guides and their companies from potential lawsuits. And skiing is recognized by courts in California as inherently dangero…
Associated Press News
Ski guides in spotlight as investigators probe deadly California avalanche
Legal experts say a criminal investigation announced into whether negligence played a role in a deadly California avalanche could hinge on key decisions by guides leading the ill-fated ski trip.
Criminal negligence under review in deadly California avalanche
TRUCKEE, Calif. — Authorities investigating the deadly avalanche in California’s Sierra Nevada will look at whether criminal negligence played a role in the tragedy, a sheriff’s office leading one of several investigations said Friday.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 49% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
