A devastating boating accident on Lake Tahoe has resulted in the tragic loss of eight lives, including Joshua Antony Pickles, a 37-year-old DoorDash executive. The incident occurred over the weekend and has drawn attention to the dangers of sudden weather changes on the lake. According to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, Pickles, who served as the global head of strategic sourcing and procurement in DoorDash’s finance team, was among the victims recovered from the water.
In addition to Joshua Pickles, his family members were also among those who perished in the accident. His parents, Paula Bozinovich, 71, and Terry Pickles, 73, both residents of Redwood City, tragically lost their lives alongside Pickles' uncle, Peter Bayes, 72, from Lincoln, California. Other victims included Timothy O’Leary, 71, from Auburn, California; Theresa Giullari, 66, from Honeoye, New York; James Guck, 69, also from Honeoye; and Stephen Lindsay, 63, from Springwater, New York.
The boating accident took place on Saturday afternoon near D.L. Bliss State Park when the boat, carrying ten people, capsized due to turbulent weather conditions. Reports indicate that waves were as high as 8 feet, and winds reached speeds of over 35 mph. Despite the immediate rescue efforts, two individuals were hospitalized, while the bodies of eight victims were ultimately recovered from the lake, with the last person found on Monday.
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office has expressed its heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragic event. In a statement, they acknowledged the profound impact of the loss on the community. DoorDash also released a statement to NBC News, expressing their sorrow over the incident. "Josh loved his team and was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," the company stated. "The loss of Josh is immeasurable, and we will carry his memory with us always."
According to family spokesperson Sam Singer, the group was celebrating Bozinovich’s birthday aboard a boat that Joshua Pickles had purchased just a year prior. Pickles’ wife, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard, remained at home caring for their seven-month-old daughter. She shared her devastation, stating, "We lost my loving husband Josh Pickles, his parents Terry Pickles and Paula Bozinovich, and Uncle Peter Bayes, as well as friends in this tragedy." She emphasized the pain of losing loved ones during what was meant to be a joyful gathering.
Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard expressed her grief and the anguish felt by the families affected by this unexpected and deadly storm on Lake Tahoe. She extended her thoughts and love to those who lost their lives and the two survivors of the tragic accident. The community is coming together to support the families during this incredibly difficult time, reflecting on the importance of safety on the water.
