A rescue team works through the aftermath of the Castle Peak avalanche on Feb. 17, 2026.

The families of six victims of Tuesday’s deadly Tahoe avalanche issued their first public statement Thursday afternoon, sharing that they are reeling in the wake of the shocking deaths.

“Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women,” the statement said. “They were all mothers, wives and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors. They were passionate, skilled skiers who cherished time together in the mountains.”

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The families released the names of the six women: Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar and Kate Vitt.

The women were part of a 15-person group that was on a professionally guided two-night backcountry trip to the Frog Lake huts. They were hit by an........

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