A couple from San Jose, California, Pedro David Guadarrama Ceron, aged 30, and his pregnant fiancée, Emma Nelly Diazleal Lopez, aged 33, drowned on July 16, 2024. The tragedy occurred when a powerful wave swept them off the rocks while taking photographs near West Cliff Drive, a location infamously known as the “death rocks” due to its treacherous currents.
An unexpected wave, known as a sneaker wave, overtook the couple. Bystanders promptly dialed 911, and emergency responders discovered Ceron and Lopez floating face down in the water. Despite immediate rescue attempts, both were declared dead shortly after being retrieved from the ocean.
The Santa Cruz Fire Department reported that the incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. Despite concerted resuscitation efforts, neither of the victims could be revived, as Fire Chief Rob Oatey confirmed. He also highlighted the area’s inherent dangers, noting the rocks’ fluctuating heights and unpredictable waves that make it exceedingly hazardous. The terrain is unstable and can change without warning. If someone falls into the water, they are met with strong currents and various obstacles such as coves, caves, and rocks, increasing the risk of entrapment or unconsciousness.
The couple had reached the rocks by descending a cliff, a section marked with warning signs discouraging access. The Santa Cruz Fire Department issued a reminder to respect the ocean and adhere to safety measures. “Never turn your back on the ocean and be aware of tidal conditions,” the department said. They emphasized that certain southerly swells and rising tides can generate sneaker waves that can catch beachgoers by surprise, often leading to fatal outcomes.
The couple’s family disclosed to the media that the pair were engaged and had recently discovered that they were expecting a child.
This tragic incident underscores the necessity for caution along the coastline. Chief Oatey stressed the importance of safety equipment and appealed to the public to respect and conserve lifesaving tools. He noted that the emergency equipment box near the site was found to be empty, a factor that could impede rescue efforts in the future.
While the Santa Cruz coast is celebrated for its stunning views, attracting numerous tourists and locals, it is also infamous for its dangerous conditions, especially around the “death rocks”. Over the years, this area has been the site of multiple fatalities, leading to ongoing cautions from authorities. The combination of slippery rocks and sudden waves can transform a picturesque trip into a hazardous situation in moments.
