A devastating incident occurred on Lake Tahoe, California, when a 27-foot Chris-Craft boat capsized in a sudden and intense storm, resulting in multiple fatalities and missing persons. The tragedy unfolded on Saturday, June 21, 2025, near D.L. Bliss State Park, leaving the community in shock and grief.
The US Coast Guard received a distress call around 3:00 p.m. local time, reporting ten people in the water after the vessel capsized.
The catastrophic waves, driven by rapidly forming storm clouds that included rain, snow, and extreme temperature drops, overwhelmed the boat and its passengers. According to eyewitness accounts, the storm created “worse than 30-foot waves on the sea,” making it a perilous situation for those on the lake.
The emergency response was swift, with multiple agencies, including the Coast Guard, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, California State Parks, park rangers, seasonal lifeguards, and North Tahoe Fire Protection teams, rushing to the scene.
First responders performed CPR and triage, pulling survivors onto rocks near Lester Beach and transporting them to hospitals. Two survivors were rescued, treated for hypothermia, and hospitalized; however, one later died in transit to further care.
Tragically, six adults were recovered from the water and confirmed dead, while two other passengers were pronounced dead after being pulled from the lake.
Two individuals remain missing, with search and rescue operations ongoing. The El Dorado County Dive Team and Sheriff’s Search & Rescue resumed operations Sunday morning to continue searching for the two missing persons.
The incident highlights the importance of preparedness on the water, particularly in mountainous regions where weather conditions can shift rapidly.
Lake Tahoe’s normally tranquil waters transformed into a deadly force, catching many off guard. A boat captain described the day as “a very, very tragic day on Lake Tahoe.” The community is mourning the loss of life, with local residents placing flowers and memorials near D.L. Bliss State Park in tribute to the victims.
As investigations continue, authorities aim to determine the cause of the capsize, adherence to safety protocols, and whether any warnings were missed.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of caution when boating on Lake Tahoe. Experts stress the need for robust storm alert systems to prevent such tragedies in the future.