A new report by the U.S. Forest Service National Avalanche Center and Colorado Avalanche Information Center has found that a guided group from California skiers and guides crossed slide-prone terrain close together, despite a warning that avalanches were expected. The report also revealed that a guide and client who fell behind due to a ski binding malfunction avoided being caught in the avalanche and later helped rescue others. This is the first official assessment of the tragedy to point to decision-making among the group. The incident remains under investigation by the local sheriff and state occupational safety authorities. Blackbird Mountain Guides, which led the group, said the report "does not reflect the full scope of what transpired" and is cooperating fully with authorities.