The deadliest avalanche in modern California history is now at the center of a workplace safety case. Cal/OSHA has cited Blackbird Mountain Guides for seven violations and proposed $151,300 in penalties. The avalanche happened back on February 17 near Perry’s Peak, and it claimed the lives of three guides and six clients. Investigators say the company failed to maintain an effective injury and illness prevention program, and that guides were not removed from the hazard area even when avalanche danger was rated high. That willful violation alone carries an $81,000 fine.
Blackbird Mountain Guides has filed an appeal. Founder Zeb Blais and the company argue they were in full compliance with all regulatory requirements and that mountain guiding involves dynamic conditions that can’t be perfectly predicted. They also emphasize that the guides on the trip were careful and professional. But the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office has now forwarded a criminal investigation to the District Attorney for review, which means the legal picture could get even more serious.
For anyone in the Sacramento area who loves spending weekends in the Sierra, this story raises big questions. Whether you’re an experienced splitboarder or a first-timer on a guided tour, you put a lot of trust in the people leading you into the mountains. This case asks a straightforward but tough question: when something goes horribly wrong, who is responsible, and what should happen next? What do you think, should the company face criminal charges, or is the state’s fine accountability enough? We want to hear from you.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
