California residents Pedro David Guadarrama Ceron, 30, and his pregnant fiancé, Emma Nelly Diazleal Lopez, 33, from San Jose, tragically lost their lives on July 16, 2024. The couple was overtaken by a forceful wave while photographing near West Cliff Drive. The locale, notoriously dubbed the “death rocks”, is well-known for its dangerous currents.

The couple was taking photographs on the rocks when a rogue wave overcame them. Bystanders promptly dialed 911, and upon arrival, first responders discovered Ceron and Lopez floating in the water. Despite immediate rescue attempts, both were declared dead shortly after being retrieved from the ocean.

The Santa Cruz Fire Department reported the incident took place around 6:15 p.m. Continuous efforts to revive them were unfortunately unsuccessful, as noted by Fire Chief Rob Oatey. Oatey highlighted the perilous nature of the site, with its fluctuating rock heights and unpredictable waves. The unstable, ever-changing surface can prove deadly for anyone who falls into the water, with strong currents and obstacles such as coves, caves, and rocks posing potential entrapment or unconsciousness risks.

The couple had accessed the dangerous site by descending a cliff, disregarding warning signs advising against entering the area. The Santa Cruz Fire Department reiterated the importance of heeding safety guidelines and respecting the ocean’s power. The department’s statement warned the public to “never turn your back on the ocean and be aware of tidal conditions”. It emphasized that certain southern swells and rising tides can generate rogue waves that catch unsuspecting beachgoers by surprise, often leading to disastrous outcomes.

The couple’s family informed the media that the pair were engaged and had recently discovered they were going to have a baby.

This tragic event underscores the importance of coastal safety. Chief Oatey emphasized the need for safety equipment and called on the public to respect and maintain lifesaving tools. He also revealed that the emergency box near the incident was found empty, which could impede future rescue efforts.

Despite its scenic allure, which attracts numerous tourists and locals alike, Santa Cruz’s coastline is infamous for its hazardous conditions, especially around the “death rocks”. The site’s combination of slippery rocks and unexpected waves has led to numerous fatalities over the years, prompting ongoing warnings from authorities.