Body of missing 22-year-old UC Santa Barbara student found in Big Bear Lake

BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (KABC) -- A young man reported missing in Big Bear Lake over the weekend was found dead Monday morning, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department said.

Tanner Prentiss' body was found in the water near the Pine Knot Marina around 10:20 a.m. by deputies during a search for the 22-year-old, the sheriff's department said.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department confirmed Prentiss was from the Santa Clarita Valley area and was a UC Santa Barbara student.

Prentiss was visiting the lake with a group of friends. Officials said he was last seen on Village Drive at 12:30 a.m. Saturday. His friends reported Prentiss missing when he didn't return to the group's rental cabin.

On Monday, investigators followed up on information from people who saw Prentiss last, which led their search to the marina area. The aviation division involved in the search spotted his body in the water, and the dive team moved in to recover it.

The sheriff's department said no foul play is suspected in Prentiss' death.

Officials said the investigation is leaning toward his death being accidental, but the coroner's office has taken over the investigation and is working to determine his exact cause of death.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with memorial services and other needs.

UC Santa Barbara issued the following statement:

"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."