17-year-old who dreamed of becoming a nurse dies in Sequoia National Park after getting swept away by current

A 17-year-old girl’s first visit to Sequoia National Park tragically turned into her last outing after she slipped into a river, was pulled in by the water’s current and drowned.

Andrea Diaz Mondragon from Santa Maria was visiting the park with her older brother and a group of friends last Friday when the incident happened.

As soon as she slipped into the river, the teen’s older brother and a close friend tried saving her but failed, the family said in a GoFundMe statement. Bystanders were able to save one of the two rescuers by tying clothes together to form a rope, reported KSEE24. The other person trying to help the teenager managed to stay afloat and reach the riverbank.

According to the family, Mondrogan’s life was rooted in the principles of serving people. “She dreamed of becoming a nurse and was passionate about helping others. Andrea loved to dance, spending time with her family and friends, and bringing joy to those around her. She was known for being outgoing, strong, brave, and caring,” the GoFundMe statement read. 

Mondragon was on the track to begin her senior year in August at Pioneer Valley High School in Santa Maria and had recently graduated from her junior year.

“Andrea deeply loved her family. She cherished her mother, father, and two older brothers, and was always there for her younger sister, whom she loved and protected,” read the family’s statement.

The Fresno Fire Department has conducted 15 water rescue operations so far this year, resulting in 6 people losing their lives to drowning.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters