NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Santa Cruz, CA, June 16, 2026 — Two Bay Area college students have died after being swept into the Pacific Ocean along the Santa Cruz County coastline, leaving their families, friends, and university communities in mourning.
Authorities identified the victims as Harshita Nair, 21, a student at UC Berkeley, and Mahial Sran, 20, a student at San Jose State University.
The tragedy unfolded on June 10 along a rugged stretch of coastline near Bonny Doon Beach in Santa Cruz County. Emergency crews launched a large-scale rescue operation after a witness reported that two women had been swept into the ocean.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, rescuers believe the two friends were resting or sleeping near an area known as the “Keyhole,” a rocky section between Bonny Doon Beach and Yellow Bank Beach, when the tide unexpectedly surged. The area is known for rapidly changing ocean conditions, powerful waves, and rising tides that can catch visitors off guard even when the shoreline appears calm.
Multiple agencies responded to the emergency. One woman was located near Panther Beach, while the other was found farther down the coastline near Yellow Bank Beach. Both were pulled from the water and transported to local hospitals.
Nair died shortly after being rescued. Sran remained hospitalized in critical condition before succumbing to her injuries several days later.
Nair was pursuing a degree in legal studies at UC Berkeley and was expected to graduate in 2027. Sran was studying public health at San Jose State University. Both graduated from Washington High School in Fremont in 2023 and were reported to have been longtime friends.
Santa Cruz County officials have repeatedly warned visitors about the dangers posed by the region’s coastline, including powerful currents, sneaker waves, and rapidly changing tide conditions. The Keyhole area, where the two women were believed to have been resting, has been the site of previous rescues and is considered particularly hazardous because of its unpredictable ocean surges.
As news of the tragedy spread, tributes poured in from classmates, friends, and community members. Many remembered Nair and Sran for their academic achievements, warmth, and the promise of bright futures ahead.
