A DESPERATE search is underway for a college student who vanished on a night out with friends during a weekend trip.
The group had traveled to a popular mountain getaway for a short break before Tanner Prentiss, 22, went missing.
Prentiss, a student from the University of California at Santa Barbara, was last spotted around 12:30 am on Saturday in Big Bear Lake, California, approximately 100 miles east of Los Angeles.
He never made it back to the cabin he was sharing with friends.
Prentiss had been out on Friday night before disappearing in the early hours, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
“After going out for the evening, Tanner did not return to his rental cabin,” the sheriff’s office wrote.
He hasn’t been seen or heard from since, sparking concern among family and friends.
Prentiss was last seen wearing a black hoodie and jeans.
It is believed he was walking alone when he disappeared.
The Big Bear Lake Sheriff’s Station didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment by The U.S. Sun.
Big Bear Lake is a popular Southern California mountain destination known for its hiking trails, lake activities, and ski resort.
It draws college students, especially during long weekends or breaks, for its mix of nature and nightlife.
Prentiss’ disappearance comes as UC Santa Barbara students are wrapping up spring quarter classes with finals just weeks away.
Loved ones have turned to social media to help spread the word and raise awareness.
“If anyone knows anything, please reach out to help us get Tanner home,” wrote one person.
A LinkedIn profile identifies him as an economics and sociology student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, set to graduate next year.
Big Bear Sheriffs Department’s statement
Date/Time: May 18, 2025 / 6 pm
Incident: Missing Person
Location: 40000 block Village Drive, Big Bear Lake
Missing Person: Tanner Prentiss, 22-year-old male, resident of Santa Barbara County
Summary: Tanner Prentiss and a group of friends traveled to Big Bear Lake during the weekend of May 17, 2025. After an evening out, Tanner failed to return to his rented cabin. He was last observed on May 17, at roughly 12:30 am, on Village Drive in Big Bear Lake. It is believed Tanner may have been heading northbound toward Big Bear Blvd. He was last seen dressed in a black hoodie and jeans.
If you have seen Tanner or have any information regarding his whereabouts please contact the Big Bear Station at, (909) 866-0100.
Refer: Detective Brett Meelker
Station: Big Bear Station
Phone No. 909-866-0100
Statement by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Department
Prentiss last posted on his personal Instagram two weeks ago with the caption “So many activities!!” He can be seen with his friends.
Prentiss has red hair, fair skin, and blue eyes. He is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall.
Anyone who sees him is asked to contact the sheriff’s office immediately.
