Skier Dangles From Lift Chair at California Ski Resort

Roula De Miranda-Arce was saved by her sister and friend after slipping from her seat on the ski lift.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 21-year-old skier named Roula De Miranda-Arce was riding a ski lift at Big Bear Mountain Resort in California when she accidentally slipped out of her seat. Her twin sister Raizel and a friend were able to grab Roula's arms and hold her until the lift reached the top of the hill, where ski patrol members helped her to safety. The incident was caught on video by another skier.

Why it matters

Ski lift safety is an important issue, as incidents like this can pose serious risks to skiers. This event highlights the need for proper safety protocols to be followed by both skiers and ski resort staff to prevent such dangerous situations from occurring.

The details

Roula De Miranda-Arce was riding the ski lift with her twin sister Raizel and a friend when she slipped out of her seat. Raizel and the friend were able to grab Roula's arms and hold her until the lift reached the top of the hill, where ski patrol members assisted her. Roula said she was terrified during the incident and feared for her life, seeing "her death" as she looked down.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Roula De Miranda-Arce

A 21-year-old skier who slipped out of her seat on the ski lift at Big Bear Mountain Resort.

Raizel De Miranda-Arce

Roula's twin sister, who helped grab her arms and prevent her from falling.

Pierce Mayer

A fellow skier who caught the incident on video.

Big Bear Mountain Resort

The ski resort where the incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“She accidentally slipped and was really falling. My friend was screaming at her, stop wiggling. She was in panic mode.”

— Raizel De Miranda-Arce, Roula's twin sister (NBC Los Angeles)

“My body was in so much pain. I was so scared. I looked down and kept seeing my death.”

— Roula De Miranda-Arce (NBC Los Angeles)

“I love my sister and my friend. I'm so thankful they saved me.”

— Roula De Miranda-Arce (NBC Los Angeles)

What’s next

Big Bear Mountain Resort officials stated they are reviewing the incident to ensure proper safety protocols are in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ski lift safety and the need for both skiers and resort staff to follow proper protocols to prevent dangerous situations. The quick actions of Roula's sister and friend likely saved her from a serious injury or worse.