6 women killed in California avalanche were among 8 close friends and experienced skiers on trip

SODA SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) — Six women killed in the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. in decades were part of a close-knit group of friends who were experienced backcountry skiers and understood the dangers of the wilderness of California’s Sierra Nevada, their families said Thursday.

Two of the friends got out alive and were rescued along with four others, including one guide, after Tuesday’s avalanche. A total of eight people were killed. One more person is missing and presumed dead.

“We are devastated beyond words,” the families said in a statement released through a spokesperson. “Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honoring the lives of these extraordinary women. They were all mothers, wives and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors.”

The six killed lived in the Bay Area, Idaho and near Lake Tahoe. They are Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar and Kate Vitt, the families said, asking for privacy as they grieve. They added that they “have many unanswered questions.”

The families said the trip was well organized in advance and the women were equipped with avalanche safety equipment.

“They were experienced backcountry skiers who deeply respected the mountains,” the statement said. “They were trained and ...