2025 Big Bear Lake Tragedy: Missing UC Santa Barbara Student Found Dead

Tags: Big Bear Lake, UC Santa Barbara student, missing student, San Bernardino Sheriff, Tanner Prentiss, accidental death

Body of Missing UC Santa Barbara Student Found

A 22-year-old UC Santa Barbara student, Tanner Prentiss, reported missing in Big Bear Lake, was found dead on Monday morning, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Details of the Incident

Prentiss, from the Santa Clarita Valley area, was visiting Big Bear Lake with friends. He was last seen on Village Drive at 12:30 a.m. Saturday. His friends reported him missing after he failed to return to their rental cabin. On Monday, around 10:20 a.m., deputies found his body in the water near Pine Knot Marina during a search effort.

Search and Recovery Efforts

Investigators followed leads from witnesses who last saw Prentiss, directing their search to the marina area. The sheriff’s aviation division spotted his body in the water, and the dive team recovered it. The sheriff’s department stated no foul play is suspected, and the death appears accidental.

Ongoing Investigation

The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office has taken over to determine the exact cause of Prentiss’ death, though the investigation currently points to an accidental incident.

UC Santa Barbara’s Response

UC Santa Barbara released a statement expressing condolences: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of our student who passed away. Losing a member of our UC Santa Barbara community is heartbreaking.” The university is offering support through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), available 24/7 at 805-893-4411, and the ASAP program for faculty and staff. Wellness resources are accessible at wellbeing.ucsb.edu.