Woman Dies After Falling Into River During Hike in Angeles National Forest

Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao, 33, was swept away by the raging current while hiking the Bridge to Nowhere Trail.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A 33-year-old mother was killed on Sunday morning after falling into the East Fork of the San Gabriel River and being swept away by the raging current while hiking the Bridge to Nowhere Trail in the Angeles National Forest. Emergency responders were unable to save the victim, and the incident has prompted warnings about the dangers of the trail during high water conditions.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the risks hikers can face in the Angeles National Forest, especially during periods of high water flow. The Bridge to Nowhere Trail is a popular hiking destination, but it requires multiple river crossings that can be treacherous when water levels are elevated, as was the case following recent weather conditions.

The details

According to authorities, Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao, 33, was hiking the Bridge to Nowhere Trail on Sunday morning when she fell into the East Fork of the San Gabriel River and was swept away by the swift current. Members of the San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team were at the trailhead providing hiking safety tips when they were alerted to the incident and immediately launched a search and rescue operation. Despite the efforts of first responders from across the region, Aguilar De Lao was found deceased after the grueling search.

  • The incident occurred at around 8 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • Rescue teams were alerted to the incident shortly after it occurred.

The players

Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao

A 33-year-old mother who tragically died after falling into the East Fork of the San Gabriel River while hiking the Bridge to Nowhere Trail in the Angeles National Forest.

San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team

A team of emergency responders who were at the trailhead providing hiking safety tips when they were alerted to the incident and launched a search and rescue operation.

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What they’re saying

“A young mother had fallen in at the second river crossing and was swept away by the raging current.”

— San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team (Social media post)

“Turn around if the water looks too fast or deep. Your life (and your loved ones' hearts) are worth more than any hike.”

— San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team (Social media post)

What’s next

Authorities have advised hikers to stay off the East Fork and Bridge to Nowhere Trail until water levels drop significantly and conditions are safer.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of exercising caution and being prepared when hiking in the Angeles National Forest, especially during periods of high water flow. Hikers are urged to closely monitor conditions, avoid crossing fast-moving rivers, and be willing to turn back if the risks appear too great.