On February 19, 2012 a group of expert skiers were caught in an avalanche at Tunnel Creek, just outside the Stevens Pass ski resort. Three skiers, Johnny Brenan, Jim Jack, and Chris Rudolph died in that avalanche. Unfortunately, skiers getting caught in an avalanche isn't unique or extraordinary. But, understanding how and why this group of skiers were caught is very important for any backcountry skier to understand.