Eight Lives Lost in Lake Tahoe Boat Tragedy: A Heartbreaking Day for Families Across California and New York

El Dorado County, California — What began as a day of leisure on the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe ended in profound tragedy on Saturday, June 21, when a 27-foot gold Chris-Craft vessel capsized during a sudden turn in the weather. The harrowing incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, left two others hospitalized, and has left families in both California and New York reeling with grief.

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identities of the deceased in a statement released Tuesday afternoon:

• Paula Bozinovich, 71, Redwood City, California
• Terry Pickles, 73, Redwood City, California
• Joshua Antony Pickles, 37, San Francisco, California
• Peter Bayes, 72, Lincoln, California
• Timothy O’Leary, 71, Auburn, California
• Theresa Giullari, 66, Honeoye, New York
• James Guck, 69, Honeoye, New York
• Stephen Lindsay, 63, Springwater, New York

A Sudden and Violent Turn

The Coast Guard Station Lake Tahoe received multiple emergency calls just after 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, reporting people struggling in the water after a boat had capsized. Witnesses said waves had reached heights of up to eight feet, and that a group of around ten people was seen trying to stay afloat in the frigid and choppy waters.

The gold Chris-Craft vessel, known for its classic style and polished wooden hull, overturned unexpectedly—throwing all ten passengers into the lake. Despite life-saving efforts, six individuals were confirmed dead by the end of the initial rescue operation. Two people survived, suffering injuries, and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Tragically, two others remained unaccounted for, prompting an expansive and urgent recovery mission.

Multi-Agency Response and Recovery

The response effort was both extensive and courageous. The U.S. Coast Guard Station Lake Tahoe dispatched boat crews to the scene within minutes. They were supported by an aerial unit from Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, which deployed a C-27 Spartan aircrew for aerial reconnaissance. Ground support included El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office deputies and K-9 units, as well as California State Parks rangers and seasonal lifeguards.

On Sunday night and Monday afternoon, recovery divers located and retrieved the final two bodies from the cold depths of the lake, bringing heartbreaking closure to the families of the missing.

“We extend our deepest heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were lost and all those who have been affected by this tragic event,” the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Without the assistance of multiple agencies, the success of the search and recovery operations would not have been nearly as efficient.”

A Widespread Grief

The victims came from across California and New York, spanning generations and bringing together a group of friends and family whose lives were tightly interwoven through shared experiences, traditions, and love for the outdoors. What was supposed to be a joyous gathering quickly turned into one of the worst maritime tragedies Lake Tahoe has seen in recent history.

Community members from Redwood City, San Francisco, Auburn, Lincoln, and the Finger Lakes region of New York are now mourning the unimaginable loss of multiple family members. Flags have been lowered in some towns, vigils are being organized, and loved ones are posting heartfelt tributes to social media.

“The pain of this loss is immeasurable,” said a family friend from Honeoye, NY. “Theresa and Jim were pillars of their community, and their loss will be felt far and wide.”

Looking Forward, Holding On to Memory

Investigators from the Coast Guard and local marine safety agencies are working to determine the exact cause of the accident. While rough waters and high winds are believed to have played a significant role, officials are examining weather data, vessel history, and survivor accounts to reconstruct the moments leading up to the capsizing.

In the meantime, families are preparing funeral and memorial services for their loved ones. Tributes are being planned both on the West Coast and in upstate New York, with grief counselors and support networks stepping in to help communities begin to process the profound loss.

🕯️ Gone But Never Forgotten

The loss of Paula, Terry, Joshua, Peter, Timothy, Theresa, James, and Stephen leaves a lasting void in the hearts of those they left behind. Though their lives were tragically cut short, their memories will live on in every sunrise over the water, every shared story, and every silent moment of remembrance.

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office has asked for continued respect and privacy for the victims’ families. Further updates will be shared as the investigation continues.