- Incident: An 18-year-old woman fell from the Highway 18 Bridge support structure at Big Bear Dam on July 15, 2026.
- Response: Deputies and Big Bear Fire Department responded; paramedics initiated lifesaving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Investigation: No suspicious circumstances are suspected; the case remains open.
Introduction
On Tuesday, July 15, 2026, at approximately 10:45 p.m., first responders began receiving reports that a woman had fallen from the Highway 18 Big Bear Dam Bridge. Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station were dispatched for a search and rescue operation. An 18-year-old female had fallen from the top of a support structure under Highway 18, leading to a fatal outcome.
Details of the Incident
According to the sheriff's report, the victim was with friends under the Highway 18 Bridge when she fell from the support structure. Initial reports indicated the victim may have landed in the water, prompting firefighters to prepare for a possible water rescue. As crews searched the area, they were directed to the actual location of the victim on the rocky creek bed far below the bridge. By approximately 11:00 p.m., the incident was upgraded to a full physical rescue. Firefighters hiked into the rugged terrain and located an approximately 18-year-old woman who was unresponsive. According to radio traffic, CPR was initiated but was later discontinued after lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced deceased at the scene. The operation then transitioned into a recovery mission, with crews using specialized equipment to hoist the victim back up to the bridge. The victim has been identified as Isabella Fanuele, 18, a Big Bear resident and recent graduate of Big Bear High School. Her father, Danny Fanueler, told The California Post that Isabella had been hanging out with friends beneath the bridge just after 11 p.m. on Tuesday when she slipped and fell. “They’ve never fenced the area off, and she fell. She slipped, then fell,” he said. Firefighters used a crane to lift her body from the embankment. Fanueler described his daughter as an excellent student who was “always on the honor roll.” She played varsity softball and golf, according to her high school web page. She also started her own baking business in school, making about $4,000. Isabella was close to her 16-year-old brother, Alex. Just two weeks before her death, she posed with her brother at her high school graduation wearing a white robe and clutching two bouquets of roses.
According to first responders at the scene, the woman had reportedly been climbing one of the massive concrete arches beneath the bridge with others when she lost her footing and fell more than 100 feet onto the rocks below.
On Wednesday, Fanuele’s friends gathered at the bridge and left flowers at a makeshift memorial, KTLA reported. Residents told the news outlet that the spot beneath the highway was a popular gathering site for local youth. According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, Fanuele “was looking forward to starting college and pursuing her dream of opening a bakery.” The family has a dream of its own: “creating a bakery in her name to honor her memory and her dreams,” the fundraiser said. As of Friday morning, the GoFundMe effort had raised more than $11,000 of its $14,000 goal.
In a statement from the fundraiser, loved ones remembered Fanuele as an energetic, ambitious young woman. "Bella (Isabella) Fanuele was just 18 years old, full of hope and excitement for the future. She had recently graduated high school and was looking forward to starting college and pursuing her dream of opening a bakery. Bella’s energy and kindness touched everyone around her, and her loss has left her family and friends heartbroken."
Loved ones are also inviting the community to contribute to the family's fundraiser, which will assist with funeral expenses and counseling.
Friends and family described Fanuele as a "beloved" teen who was known for her kindness and ambition. A memorial fund has been established to support the family and to create a bakery in her honor, reflecting her passion for baking.
Investigation Status
Based on the preliminary investigation, there are no indications of suspicious circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death. However, the investigation remains open and ongoing as authorities continue to gather information. The Big Bear Sheriff's Station is keeping the investigation open and ongoing to piece together the exact timeline of events leading up to the fall. The identity of the victim has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Local California Context
Big Bear Lake, a popular mountain resort community in San Bernardino County, is known for its scenic dam and recreational areas. The incident occurred at the Big Bear Dam, located at 37800 Big Bear Boulevard, a site frequented by locals and tourists alike. The tragedy has prompted discussions about safety measures around the dam and bridge structures.
Background
Falls from elevated structures in recreational areas are rare in Big Bear Lake, but they highlight the risks associated with unofficial climbing or exploring. Local authorities often issue warnings about staying on designated paths and avoiding structural climbing near bridges and dams. Isabella’s father noted that the bridge is a popular hangout spot for local kids, and he expressed concern that the area has never been fenced off. Firefighters noted that this was not the first incident of its kind at the bridge, stating they have responded to similar falls in the past.
Conclusion
The community mourns the loss of a young life in this tragic accident. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can call the We-Tip Hotline at 844-909-3006 or text "REPORT" to 844-909-3006. Visitors are reminded to exercise caution around elevated structures and to prioritize safety in natural areas.