TRUCKEE, Calif. – Blackbird Mountain Guides (BMG) has released the preliminary findings of an independent investigation into the February 17, 2026 avalanche near Castle Peak that killed six clients and three BMG guides.

The independent preliminary report was prepared by Don Sharaf, an avalanche professional with 35 years of field, education, and consulting experience across the avalanche and ski guiding industries. Sharaf accessed weather data, guide records, GPS tracks, and firsthand interviews and statements. The report is being released in full, alongside a supplemental document prepared by BMG that provides additional context and technical clarification.

Among the report’s findings:

When the avalanche struck, the group was in low-angle, treed terrain.

“When the group was caught by the avalanche, they were at an elevation of 7,850’ crossing a broad, flat-bottomed drainage in treed terrain that was 10°-11° in steepness.”  (Independent Preliminary Report, p25)

GPS data suggests the group repeatedly attempted to reach terrain farther from the avalanche runout zone before being turned back by an unusually open, uncrossable creek.

“Examining Choo’s Strava track from 2/17/2026 the group appeared to make 2 to 3 separate attempts to cross to the far side of the creek, but were most likely turned
back by open water and vertical creek sidewalls” (Independent Preliminary Report, p20)

In a statement, Blackbird Mountain Guides said: “There is nothing easy about any part of this. Nine deeply loved people are gone, three of them our own guides. There is still much that remains unknown, but this is the most complete information available so far, and we hope the release of this information can help the community begin to heal together.”

The report was commissioned by BMG in April and completed by Don Sharaf at the end of July. Consistent with BMG’s cooperation in the ongoing investigations, copies were provided to authorities on July 27, then provided to the families and survivors on August 4, and then on August 9, to the public.

The full report and supplemental document are available at:
2.17 Independent Preliminary Report & Supplemental Key Findings.