A 17-year-old girl’s first trip to Sequoia National Park ended in tragedy after she slipped into a river, was swept away by the current and drowned.
Andrea Diaz Mondragon, of Santa Maria, was at the park last Friday with her older brother and a group of friends when the fatal incident occurred.
Her family said in a GoFundMe statement that Mondragon’s older brother and a close friend immediately tried to rescue her after she fell into the water, but they were unable to reach her. According to KSEE24, bystanders helped save one of the rescuers by tying pieces of clothing together to create a makeshift rope, while the other person involved in the rescue effort stayed afloat and made it back to the riverbank.
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Mondragon’s family described her as someone whose life was guided by a desire to serve others. “She dreamed of becoming a nurse and was passionate about helping others. Andrea loved to dance, spending time with her family and friends, and bringing joy to those around her. She was known for being outgoing, strong, brave, and caring,” the GoFundMe statement read.
She had recently completed her junior year at Pioneer Valley High School in Santa Maria and was preparing to begin her senior year in August.
“Andrea deeply loved her family. She cherished her mother, father, and two older brothers, and was always there for her younger sister, whom she loved and protected,” her family said in the statement.
The Fresno Fire Department has reported 15 water rescue operations so far this year, with six people dying from drowning.
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