The grieving father of 18-year-old Isabella Fanuele has shared heartbreaking details about the final moments before his daughter fell to her death from a structure near a dam in Big Bear, California. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday night, has left the community in mourning for the young Big Bear resident.

According to authorities and the father’s account, Isabella was hanging out with friends beneath the Highway 18 bridge next to the Big Bear Dam just after 11 p.m. She was on a support structure when she slipped and plunged, falling a significant distance. Emergency responders arrived quickly, located her unresponsive on an embankment, and immediately began CPR, but she could not be revived.

Firefighters and rescue teams conducted a challenging recovery operation in the dark, using cranes and specialized equipment amid the rugged terrain and water near the dam. Emergency vehicles lit up the scene as crews worked through the night.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has classified the death as accidental, with no evidence of foul play. Investigators believe the group of teenagers was exploring the area beneath the bridge when the tragedy unfolded.

Isabella’s father described the devastating loss, noting the family’s profound grief. Friends and loved ones remembered her as a vibrant young woman, seen in photos smiling alongside peers at what appear to be celebratory events. The community has expressed shock and sadness over the preventable nature of such accidents in areas with hazardous structures.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with climbing or exploring near dams, bridges, and embankments, especially at night. Officials urge caution and adherence to safety guidelines in recreational areas around Big Bear Lake.

Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/family-girl-plunged-death-california-182433654.html