One Dead After Avalanche Near Castle Peak Outside Truckee

One person has died following an avalanche near Johnson Peak and Castle Peak outside Truckee, prompting a large-scale emergency response from multiple agencies Monday afternoon.

According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, the initial 911 call came in at 2:19 p.m. as a transfer from Washoe County, reporting a possible avalanche involving a group of snowmobilers with one individual unaccounted for. Deputies responded alongside Truckee Fire and North Truckee Fire, while mutual aid was requested from Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue.

Roughly 45 emergency responders were deployed to the rugged backcountry terrain. Search teams utilized three SnoCats, six snowmobiles, and multiple ski teams to access the avalanche zone. Emergency helicopter support was requested but unavailable at the time.

As the response unfolded, authorities learned that the missing snowmobiler had been located buried under the snow just minutes after the avalanche occurred. Fellow recreationists were able to recover the individual and attempted lifesaving measures, but the victim did not survive. The person’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.

Officials warn that additional avalanche activity remains possible in the area and urge recreationists to avoid the Johnson Peak and Castle Peak region. The Sheriff’s Office and Tahoe Nordic SAR extended condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones.