DEEP CREEK:(VVNG.com)- Officials have released the identity of a teenager whose life ended after cliff diving from a rock and into a natural body of water.
The tragic accident took place on Friday, April 24, 2015 when 16-year-old Oscar Fuentes and a group of four friends decided to spend the day swimming and cliff diving at Deep Creek Hot Springs.
The hot springs are located in a very remote area not accessible by vehicles in the northern Mojave Desert section of the San Bernardino National Forest, near Hesperia in San Bernardino County.
Due to the area being so remote often times cell phone service is not available. The natural body of water with surrounding cliffs is a well-known popular spot for cliff diving teens. The area is also frequently used by hikers who hike on the Freedom Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Like many other’s have done before, Oscar decided to cliff dive from the rocks and into the water. According to witnesses, after entering the water Oscar briefly resurfaced but for unknown reasons submerged back under the water and never resurfaced after that. At approximately 3:24 P.M., the frightened teenagers called 911 for help.
San Bernardino County Sheriff Department Dive Rescue personnel were dispatched and arrived within about 30 minutes of receiving the initial call. A diver entered the pool, and immediately located the body of Oscar Fuentes.
Fuentes was flown to the Loma Linda University Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 5:13 PM.
Oscar Fuentes was a resident of Apple Valley and a sophomore at Apple Valley High School. Oscar played various positions for the school’s football team the Sundevils, and he proudly wore his #21 jersey.
Shortly after hearing about the tragic news Victor Valley News Group members began sharing heartfelt messages about Oscar and his family via the FB group.
“Oscar was a great young man! Every time I saw him walk down the hallway he always had the biggest smile on his face! He could always make everyone around him laugh and smile! He was truly a great guy and one of a kind! The Fuentes family will be in my prayers! Rest in Paradise Oscar! You are loved and missed by so many!” – Kristin Walker.
“I remember taking you home from Sitting Bull, you always made me laugh, and always had the biggest smile on your face. Was looking forward to watching you and Corey play football this season. I will miss you so much Oscar…RIP sweetie…you will be missed. Prayers to your family at this most difficult time.” – Debbie Dollarhide Walker.
“RIP. Playing on the field with you was fun. I’ll never forget you. You touched the hearts of many lives. Can’t wait to meet up with you again someday! RIP Oscar!” – Brandon Walker.
“He was the nicest and most respected kid I know. It is such a tragedy. The family is like our family. The news is devastating. We are completely heartbroken!!! Please prayers to the Fuentes family is much appreciated!! Diane and Bryan!! My heart is broken!!! We loved him like he was our own!” – Staci LeClair
“So sorry for the loss of this wonderful heart and athlete. Fly high buddy. You will be greatly missed.” – Paula Weiford.
“It’s horrible having to lose my friend this way, he was filled with so much spirit and always had a smile. It’s really hard to believe.” – Nidia Ortiz.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff Department, Victorville Station is investigating the incident. The Coroner Department will be performing an autopsy to determine cause of death.
(Related Articles: 16-Year-Old Dies After Jumping off Rocks into Deep Creek)
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