A tight-knit group of mothers who shared a love for the outdoors and a deep bond of friendship are among the victims of the deadliest avalanche in California history, leaving families, communities, and fellow believers grieving a loss that feels almost impossible to comprehend.

Authorities confirmed that nine people died after a Feb. 17 avalanche struck a guided backcountry skiing expedition near Castle Peak in the Sierra Nevada mountains, north of Lake Tahoe. Among them were six women described by loved ones as devoted mothers, wives, and friends: Carrie Atkin, Kate Morse, Danielle Keatley, Caroline Sekar, Kate Vitt, and Liz Clabaugh.

In a joint statement, their families spoke through their heartbreak. “We are devastated beyond words,” they said. “Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women.”

The women were known to travel together for backcountry skiing trips and were deeply experienced in the sport. “They were all mothers, wives and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors,” the families said. “They were passionate, skilled skiers who cherished time together in the mountains.”

Friends affectionately referred to them online as a group of “supermoms,” a name that captures both their adventurous spirit and their devotion at home. Several were connected to the prestigious Sugar Bowl Academy ski community, underscoring their deep roots in mountain life.

Their trip had been carefully planned: “Eight close friends planned a professionally guided, two-night backcountry hut trip … The trip had been organized well in advance,” the families shared. “They were experienced backcountry skiers who deeply respected the mountains … They were fully equipped with avalanche safety equipment.”

Even with preparation and expert guidance, tragedy struck as the group was returning to camp. Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon said, “They were on their way back to camp when the avalanche actually hit,” noting that it took rescuers hours to locate survivors.

Search and recovery efforts have been slow due to dangerous conditions, and officials closed the Castle Peak area to protect first responders. Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier expressed sympathy shared by many across the country: “Our deepest condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones from this tragic incident.”

For the families, grief is compounded by the reality of children left without their mothers. Yet even in sorrow, their statement reflects the kind of love and unity often seen when faith communities rally together: “We are heartbroken and are doing our best to care for one another and our families in the way we know these women would have wanted.”

Stories like this echo a painful truth Christians know well: life is fragile, and loss can come suddenly—even to those who are prepared, experienced, and wise. But Scripture also reminds believers that God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), especially in moments when words fall short.

Across communities from California to Idaho and beyond, people are remembering six women whose lives reflected friendship, courage, and devotion to family. Their legacy lives on in the children they raised, the friendships they nurtured, and the memories forged in the mountains they loved.

Heavenly Father,
We lift up the families, children, and friends grieving the loss of these beloved mothers. Wrap them in Your comfort and peace that surpasses understanding. Strengthen them in the days ahead, and surround them with loving support. Lord, hold close every child who now faces life without their mother’s presence. Remind them they are never alone, and that Your love endures forever.
Amen.