BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. — A 22-year-old college student who went missing over the weekend in the popular mountain town of Big Bear Lake has been found dead, authorities confirmed Monday.
Tanner Prentiss, a student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, was last seen around 12:30 a.m. on May 17. His body was discovered shortly before 10:30 a.m. Monday near Pine Knot Marina, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.
Discovered During Search Operation
Search crews using a helicopter located Prentiss’ body in the water, and a dive team recovered him, according to CBS News. Deputies are continuing to investigate how he ended up in the lake, though no foul play is suspected, the sheriff’s office said. The cause of death is pending an investigation by the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office.
Group Trip Turns Tragic
Prentiss was visiting Big Bear with a group of friends, who reported him missing after he failed to return to their rental cabin. His disappearance triggered an urgent search by law enforcement and rescue teams over the weekend.
Community and Family Mourn
Prentiss’ grandmother, Marilyn Taylor, shared a heartbreaking tribute on Facebook: “Tanner was the funny guy, always smiling, tons of friends, charismatic, responsible and a really good person. This loss is more than we can bear at this time.”
The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station also expressed condolences, writing, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tanner’s family, friends and all those who are affected by his loss. The family is requesting privacy.”
UC Santa Barbara Responds
In a statement to USA TODAY, UC Santa Barbara called Tanner’s death “heartbreaking” and extended support to the campus community: “We understand the impact and stress surrounding this tragedy and are committed to supporting our campus community who may be impacted.” The university is encouraging students, faculty, and staff to utilize campus mental health and support services.
Source Attribution
Information sourced from:
- Big Bear Sheriff’s Station (Facebook)
- CBS News
- KTLA / KABC local news reports
- UC Santa Barbara official statement
**This article was written by [Frank Mooney]. AI was used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.**