GoFundMe Launched for Diego Cortes, Teen Who Drowned at Lake Arrowhead
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of 18-year-old Diego A. Cortes, the Rancho Cucamonga teen who tragically drowned while swimming with family at Lake Arrowhead earlier this week.
On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Cortes was swimming in the North Bay area of Lake Arrowhead when a family member noticed he had gone underwater and failed to resurface, according to a written statement from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station, along with personnel from the San Bernardino County Fire Department and Arrowhead Lake Association patrol boats, responded to the scene.
Members of the Sheriff’s Dive Team recovered Diego from the water, and life-saving measures were immediately initiated. He was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.
Following the tragic loss, Diego’s uncle, Mario Cortes Pulido, created a GoFundMe titled “Support Diego’s Family After Tragic Loss” to help with funeral and memorial expenses.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved Diego,” Mario wrote in the campaign’s description. “At just 18 years old, Diego’s life was tragically cut short, leaving our family and friends that loved him deeply heartbroken.”
Remembered as a “beautiful soul,” Diego was described as kind, selfless, and full of light. “He had a quiet strength and a heart that always put others before himself,” Mario shared. “He loved his family fiercely and had deep unwavering faith in God.”
Diego had a passion for boxing and took pride in his Mexican heritage. He had recently secured his first job and was preparing to begin college, excited to build a future and pursue his dreams.
“Diego had so many dreams, hopes, and above all, so much love to give,” the GoFundMe description reads. “His loss has left an unimaginable void in our lives and hearts.”
The family also shared one of Diego’s favorite Bible verses, Romans 12:9-10 (NIV): “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourself.”
Donations are being accepted through the GoFundMe page to help ease the financial burden as the family mourns and celebrates Diego’s life.
Related Article: Teen Pronounced Dead After Drowning Incident at Lake Arrowhead
