A devastating boating accident on Lake Tahoe on June 21, 2025, claimed the lives of eight individuals, including corporate professionals, retirees, and beloved family members. Among the victims were 37-year-old Joshua Antony Pickles, a DoorDash executive, and his parents, Paula Bozinovich, 71, and Terry Pickles, 73, all of California. Other California victims included Peter Bayes, 72, and Timothy O’Leary, 71. From New York, the deceased were Theresa Giullari, 66, James Guck, 69, and Stephen Lindsay, 63. The group was celebrating a birthday aboard a 27-foot Chris-Craft vessel when a sudden storm with high winds and waves capsized the boat.
The incident, which took place near D.L. Bliss State Park, led to a massive search and rescue operation involving the U.S. Coast Guard, California State Parks, and local fire departments. The search ended on June 23, when the final missing person was recovered. Only two individuals survived, but their conditions remain undisclosed. Family members, colleagues, and friends have expressed deep sorrow, with tributes pouring in for Joshua Pickles and others who lost their lives.
Joshua’s wife, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard, shared a heartfelt message expressing the pain and devastation of losing their loved ones during what was supposed to be a joyful celebration. DoorDash CFO Ravi Inukonda paid tribute to Pickles, calling him an inspiring figure at the company. Local 467 remembered O’Leary for his dedication to family and work, while Stephen Lindsay’s sister spoke about the profound loss of her brother.
This tragic event follows a similar maritime disaster earlier in May, when 18-year-old Ava Moore, a U.S. Air Force Academy candidate, was fatally struck by a personal watercraft in Texas. The incident led to the arrest of Daikeryn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez and her companion, Maikel Coello Perozo. Moore, remembered for her leadership and positivity, was a promising student-athlete with a deep commitment to serving her country.