Nevada and California Ski Guides Identified in One of U.S.’s Deadliest Avalanches

 A devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe has claimed the lives of nine people, including three professional ski guides, in one of the deadliest backcountry incidents in the United States in decades. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the guides — Andrew Alissandratos, 34, of Verdi, Nevada; Nicole Choo, 42, of South Lake Tahoe, California; and Michael Henry, 30, of Soda Springs, California — were all employees of Blackbird Mountain Guides. The tragedy occurred Tuesday at Castle Peak, roughly 30 miles northwest of Lake Tahoe, when a massive snow slide, estimated to be the size of a football field, swept over a group of 15 skiers.

Alongside the guides, six of their clients were killed. Families described the victims as a close-knit group of mothers and longtime friends who shared a love for backcountry skiing. The sheer force and speed of the avalanche left little chance for survival, and recovery efforts were hampered by blizzard-like conditions on the steep, avalanche-prone terrain. Crews, assisted by a California National Guard Black Hawk helicopter, worked over two days to retrieve all nine bodies.

Blackbird Mountain Guides issued a statement mourning the loss of their team members, calling them “incredibly skilled, safety-minded professionals” who prioritized the safety of every skier in their care. The company emphasized its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the avalanche, highlighting the unforeseen dangers even experienced guides face in backcountry conditions.

The American Avalanche Association noted that this event represents the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. in 45 years, sparking a renewed discussion about the risks associated with guided backcountry skiing trips. Experts say that while guided excursions significantly reduce danger, unpredictable weather, unstable snow conditions, and steep terrain can still pose extreme hazards. This tragedy underscores the critical importance of avalanche awareness, safety training, and emergency preparedness for all backcountry enthusiasts.

Community members and families of the victims are expressing profound grief, highlighting the bonds formed through shared adventure and the love of winter sports. Memorials and tributes have poured in from around the region, honoring both the guides and their clients for their passion, courage, and dedication to skiing. Local ski communities are rallying to support the families, sharing condolences and resources to help cope with the immense loss.

As investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the avalanche, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable and powerful forces of nature. The loss of skilled guides Andrew Alissandratos, Nicole Choo, and Michael Henry, along with six beloved clients, has left a deep impact on the Lake Tahoe community and the broader backcountry skiing world. Their memory will remain a testament to the dedication, skill, and adventurous spirit that defined their lives.