Fremont College Students Died After Ocean Tides Sweep Beach

Two college students from Fremont, California, died last week after being swept into the Pacific Ocean by rising tides while apparently sleeping on a Santa Cruz County beach. The victims were identified as Harshita Nair, 21, and Mahial Sran, 20, according to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities said the incident occurred on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, near a coastal access point known as the Keyhole, a natural archway leading to Yellow Bank Beach. The two friends were believed to have been caught off guard by incoming tides and powerful surf, which pulled them into the water. Emergency crews were dispatched after a witness called 911.

A large, multi-agency rescue effort ensued, involving approximately eight rescue swimmers from CAL FIRE, state lifeguards, and local fire departments. One woman was pulled ashore at Panther Beach, where responders immediately began lifesaving efforts. The second victim was located farther down the shoreline and was airlifted from Yellow Bank Beach by a CAL FIRE helicopter. Both women were transported to hospitals but were later pronounced dead. Nair died on Thursday and Sran on Saturday, officials confirmed.