The news of the tragic Lake Tahoe boating accident on June 21, 2025, has sent shockwaves, particularly with the confirmed loss of Josh Pickles, a respected executive at DoorDash. This devastating event not only claimed the life of the 37-year-old San Francisco resident but also his parents, Terry Pickles, 73, and Paula Bozinovich, 71, along with his uncle Peter Bayes, 72, and four friends. The incident, which occurred during a sudden and severe storm, has highlighted the unpredictable nature of Lake Tahoe and left a community in mourning.
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office identified all eight victims on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, shedding more light on the scale of this profound loss. Josh Pickles was on Lake Tahoe celebrating his mother Paula’s 71st birthday with family and friends when their 27-foot Chris-Craft powerboat capsized. His wife, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard, and their 7-month-old daughter were thankfully not on board, having opted to stay on shore.
A Life of Impact: Remembering Josh Pickles
Josh Pickles was known for his significant contributions at DoorDash, where he served as the Global Head of Strategic Sourcing and Procurement within the finance team. He had been with the company for nearly seven years, leaving an indelible mark on his colleagues and the organization as a whole. DoorDash CFO Ravi Inukonda expressed the company’s profound sadness, stating that Josh “loved his team and was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.” Inukonda further noted that Josh brought a “contagious spirit that lifted those around him,” emphasizing the immense void his passing leaves.
Before his tenure at DoorDash, Josh Pickles also held positions at other prominent tech companies, including Salesforce and Cisco. His career trajectory showcased a dedicated professional with a strong aptitude for finance and procurement, consistently rising through the ranks. His professional life was characterized by a commitment to his work and a genuine connection with his colleagues.
Key Point Summary:
- Victim: Josh Pickles, 37, DoorDash executive.
- Accident Date: June 21, 2025.
- Location: Lake Tahoe, near D.L. Bliss State Park.
- Circumstances: Boat capsized during a sudden and severe storm.
- Other Victims: His parents, Terry Pickles (73) and Paula Bozinovich (71), uncle Peter Bayes (72), and four friends.
- Survives: His wife, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard, and 7-month-old daughter, who were not on the boat.
- Role at DoorDash: Global Head of Strategic Sourcing and Procurement.
The Lake Tahoe Tragedy: Unraveling the Details
The boating accident on Lake Tahoe has been described as one of the deadliest in the region’s recent history, and the deadliest in California since the 2019 Conception dive boat fire. Witnesses and authorities report that an unexpected and powerful summer thunderstorm brought severe wind gusts exceeding 35 mph and waves swelling to over eight feet. This sudden change in weather conditions proved overwhelming for the vessel.
A family spokesperson, Sam Singer, conveyed that the storm came up so quickly, even a prepared seagoing vehicle and skilled sailor would have been overwhelmed. The large waves flooded the boat, causing the engine to stall and ultimately leading to the capsizing. Rescue efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, and other regional agencies were extensive, involving multiple teams of divers and unmanned underwater vessels. The last missing person’s body was recovered on Monday afternoon, June 23, concluding a comprehensive search operation.
Community Response and Moving Forward
The widespread grief over the loss of Josh Pickles and the other victims is palpable across social media platforms and within the communities affected. Tributes have poured in, remembering Josh as a loving husband and father, a devoted son, and a cherished friend and colleague. His widow, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard, released a heartbreaking statement expressing the family’s devastation. “We are devastated by this tragedy. 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. No words can express the pain and anguish we feel knowing their lives were lost during what was meant to be a joyful time on the lake.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness when engaging in recreational activities, especially on large bodies of water where weather conditions can change rapidly. While investigations into the precise details of the accident are ongoing, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and honoring the lives lost. The outpouring of sympathy and shared sorrow highlights the profound impact Josh Pickles had on those around him. His memory will undoubtedly live on through the many lives he touched, both personally and professionally.
Our thoughts remain with Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard and their daughter, as well as all the families and friends grappling with this immeasurable loss. The legacy of Josh Pickles, a bright and inspiring individual, will continue to resonate through the lives of those he influenced and the positive contributions he made during his time with us.
If you wish to show support, consider reaching out to those affected or contributing to any community initiatives established in memory of the victims.