Two friends lost their lives after being swept into the ocean in Santa Cruz County as dangerous waves battered the California coastline. The victims, Harshita Nair, 21, and Mahial Sran, 20, both from Fremont, were identified by the local sheriff-coroner's office. The incident occurred last Wednesday at Bonny Doon Beach.
Victims Identified
Nair was a legal studies major at UC Berkeley, set to graduate in 2027. Sran was pursuing a degree in public health at San José State University, also expecting to graduate in 2027. Both women graduated from Washington High School in Fremont in 2023.
Circumstances of the Tragedy
The friends were reportedly napping near a keyhole on the notoriously dangerous beach when waves swept them out to sea. Harshita's father, Ahock Nair, expressed his grief and shock, stating he had no idea what happened. Multiple law enforcement agencies responded after a witness called 911 around 5 p.m.
Rescue Efforts
Santa Cruz County Volunteer Fire Captain Kyle Breton said about eight rescue swimmers entered the treacherous waters to retrieve the victims. The beach is known for its extremely steep surf line, strong currents, and rogue waves. Breton noted that both victims were believed to have been sleeping at the keyhole, an area that often catches people off guard. One woman was transported by helicopter to Yellow Bank Beach and then to a local hospital.
