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Friends Swept Away by Dangerous California Waves
16 Jun
Summary
- Two young friends were killed by powerful ocean waves in Santa Cruz.
- Victims were identified as college students from Fremont.
- The beach is known for its steep surf and strong rogue currents.
Tragic ocean conditions claimed the lives of two young friends, Harshita Nair, 21, and Mahial Sran, 20, both from Fremont, California. The incident occurred last Wednesday at Bonny Doon Beach in Santa Cruz County, a location known for its extreme dangers.
Nair, a UC Berkeley student, and Sran, a San José State University student, were reportedly napping near a natural rock formation when powerful waves swept them into the sea. Despite a swift rescue operation involving multiple agencies and eight rescue swimmers, both women were pulled from the water.
Nair was pronounced dead shortly after rescue, while Sran remained in critical condition at a local hospital until Saturday. Authorities are still determining the exact cause and manner of their deaths. This incident marks the fifth water rescue in the area within the past month.
The dangerous southern swell affecting the California coast contributed to the treacherous conditions. Officials issued a warning, highlighting how beachgoers are often caught off guard by the unpredictable tides and currents, especially in areas like the 'keyhole' formation at Bonny Doon Beach.
