A devastating boating accident in Lake Tahoe has resulted in the loss of eight lives, including a Bay Area family. The El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Coroner's Division has confirmed the identities of the victims involved in this tragic incident. Among those who perished were Josh Pickles, aged 37, from San Francisco, and his parents, Terry Pickles, 73, and Paula Bozinovich, 71, from Redwood City.
Josh Pickles was a respected executive at DoorDash, serving as the Global Head of Strategic Sourcing and Procurement within the Finance team. His professional journey at DoorDash spanned nearly seven years, where he made significant contributions to the company's success. Prior to his role at DoorDash, he gained valuable experience working with renowned companies like Salesforce and Cisco Systems.
In a heartfelt statement to ABC7 News, DoorDash expressed its deep sorrow over the tragic loss of Josh Pickles. “We are heartbroken by the tragic accident that took the life of our beloved colleague, Josh Pickles,” the company stated. “Josh loved his team and was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The loss of Josh is immeasurable. We miss him deeply and will carry his memory with us always. Our thoughts and love are with his wife, his daughter, his family, and all who were close to him. We are working to support them through this incredibly difficult time.”
In addition to the Pickles family, two other victims from California were identified: Peter Bayes, 72, from Lincoln, and Timothy O'Leary, 71, from Auburn. The tragic incident also claimed the lives of three individuals from New York: Theresa Giullari, 66, and James Guck, 69, both from Honeoye, as well as Stephen Lindsay, 63, from Springwater. While two passengers survived the capsizing, their current condition remains unknown.
Reports indicate that the group had gathered in Lake Tahoe to celebrate a birthday when the accident occurred. The El Dorado County Sheriff's Office has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this heartbreaking event. They also expressed gratitude to all agencies that provided assistance during the emergency.
The group was aboard a 27-foot Chris-Craft luxury powerboat when the incident occurred. Emergency calls reporting the capsizing began to flood in around 5 p.m. on Saturday. Although stormy weather had been anticipated, the severity of the conditions took many by surprise, with waves reaching heights of eight to ten feet. This tragic incident marks the deadliest boating accident in California since 2019.
This tragic boating accident not only impacts the families of the victims but also serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety on the water. As investigations continue, the community rallies to support those affected, honoring the memories of those lost in this heartbreaking event.
