Investigation Finds All Nine Tahoe Avalanche Victims Died from Asphyxiation

Authorities in Nevada County have determined that the nine individuals who lost their lives in the February avalanche on Castle Peak, near Lake Tahoe, succumbed to asphyxiation. The coroner’s office disclosed the findings almost seven months after the incident, which claimed six backcountry skiers and three guides. The sheriff’s office concluded its probe into whether the guiding outfit was criminally negligent and sent the results to the district attorney’s office for further review.

Among the deceased were several mothers and close friends who often skied together, with Kate Vitt identified as one of the victims. The Sierra Avalanche Center had previously monitored the event, but the latest report focuses on the medical cause of death rather than weather conditions. The investigation’s closure provides answers to families while leaving legal questions pending.