Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue Volunteers Respond to Avalanche; One Fatality Confirmed

TRUCKEE, CA – Approximately 45 emergency responders and counting have responded to an avalanche in the vicinity of Johnson Canyon and Castle Peak in Truckee, CA, that occurred earlier today.

The original 911 call was received by the Nevada County Regional Dispatch Center at 2:19 p.m. as a transfer call from Washoe County’s 911 center, reporting a possible avalanche that unfolded among a group of snowmobilers with one unaccounted. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched in partnership with Truckee Fire and North Truckee Fire. A mutual aid request for emergency helicopter support was unavailable.

At the time of the call, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (NCSSAR) team was already on an active call for a Placer County Sheriff’s Office missing person’s case but transitioned to the avalanche based on possible level of severity. Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue also immediately responded. A total of three SnoCats were deployed, along with three snowmobile teams and several ski teams.

As events unfolded, it was learned the one snowmobiler initially reported missing was found buried under the snow several minutes later. He was recovered by fellow recreationists and despite lifesaving efforts, he did not survive. His identity is pending next of kin notification.

The scene remains active as emergency personnel work to safely extract the victim and confirm there are no other victims. Further avalanche activity remains possible; recreationists should avoid the area. An update will be provided when possible.

The Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones impacted by this tragic incident.