6 mothers who cherished time together” killed in tragic Lake Tahoe avalanche

Many questions remain after the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. in decades, but we now know more about some of the people who tragically lost their lives.

A catastrophic avalanche struck the Sierra Nevada near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday, killing up to nine people and leaving families devastated during a backcountry skiing trip.

As more information has emerged, loved ones have identified at least six of the victims as a tightly knit group of mothers who shared a love of the outdoors and a tradition of traveling together.

In a joint statement, their families named the women as Kate Vitt, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and sisters Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh. They described them as inseparable friends, united by adventure and deep devotion to their families.

“We are devastated beyond words,” the families said. “Right now, our focus is supporting our children through this unimaginable tragedy and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women.”

The women, many from California, Idaho, and the Truckee–Tahoe area, were experienced backcountry skiers equipped with avalanche safety gear. Their loved ones emphasized that their connection went far beyond skiing.

“They were all mothers, wives, and friends who bonded through their love of the outdoors. They were passionate, skilled skiers who treasured time together in the mountains.”

A Trip Turned Tragic