APTOPIX California Avalanche

Authorities looking into the deadly avalanche in California’s Sierra Nevada will investigate whether criminal negligence played a role in the tragedy. A sheriff’s office leading one of several investigations said Friday that it couldn’t share more details, saying it is an open investigation. A California state agency that regulates workplace safety also is investigating Tuesday’s avalanche that killed eight. One other person remains missing and is presumed dead. Among the questions being considered is why the tour company that organized the backcountry ski trip moved forward in the face of a powerful storm. Officials flew over the avalanche site Friday to check conditions and to see if its safe to retrieve the bodies.