Reported missing UCSB student found dead in Big Bear Lake Monday morning
Caleb Nguyen
BIG BEAR, Calif. – San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department investigators found Tanner Prentiss, a 22-year-old UCSB student, dead in Big Bear Lake just before 10:30 a.m. Monday.
Prentiss was reported missing on May 17 on a trip with friends and didn’t return to the group’s rented cabin after a night out, according to the SBSD.
He was last seen at 12:30 a.m. on Village Drive in Big Bear Lake May 17 wearing a black hoodie and jeans, according to the SBSD.
SBSD investigators followed up with people who saw him after the Sheriff’s Dive Team found Prentiss’ body in the lake near the Pine Knot Marina.
No foul play was indicated and the San Bernardino Coroner’s Office has assumed the investigation, according to the SBSD.
A GoFundMe page has been set up in support for the Prentiss Family.
Prentiss’ family asks for privacy at this time after his death.
UCSB Media Relations Manager Kiki Reyes offered a statement on behalf of the university on Prentiss’ passing:
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of our student who passed away. Losing a member of our UC Santa Barbara community is heartbreaking. We understand the impact and stress surrounding this tragedy and are committed to supporting our campus community, who may be impacted. Our campus offers resources to students, staff, and faculty who are in need of support.
Students are encouraged to reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), which can provide therapeutic support during this difficult time. To request an appointment, please complete the CAPS Services Request Form. CAPS phone consultation is available 24/7/365 by calling 805-893-4411. You will be connected to a live counselor 24/7. Students can leave a voicemail requesting a phone or Zoom meeting with a therapist. All CAPS services are free. Faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the ASAP program, which offers a variety of services. A comprehensive list of wellness resources can be accessed at wellbeing.ucsb.edu.
Kiki Reyes, Media Relations Manager, UCSB