Full Breakdown
Skier's Prank Goes Awry, Leaving Her Dangling 65 Feet Above Ground
3/3/2026, 12:37:23 PM
Incident Overview
On February 24, 2023, at Big Bear Mountain Resort in California, a 21-year-old skier, Roula De Miranda-Arce, found herself dangling 65 feet in the air after a prank on a chairlift went wrong. Roula was riding the lift with her twin sister, Raizel De Miranda-Arce, and their friend, Makenna Dumlao, when she attempted to scare her sister by sliding off the chair. However, the weight of her skis prevented her from pulling herself back up, leaving her suspended as the lift continued its ascent.
Immediate Response and Rescue
The incident was captured on video by a bystander and quickly went viral, garnering over 16 million views on social media. As Roula dangled, her sister and friend held onto her arms for approximately two minutes until the chairlift reached the top of the slope, where ski patrol was waiting. The resort confirmed that staff acted swiftly to stop the lift and safely unload all passengers. Roula was evaluated by ski patrol but did not sustain significant injuries.
Eyewitness Accounts
Roula described her experience as terrifying, stating, "I thought I was going to die or become a paraplegic." She recounted the panic she felt while hanging, even urging her friends to let her go due to the strain on her arms. Raizel, who initially thought Roula was joking, later expressed her fear of the situation, saying, "I looked down, and we were like 65 feet up in the air. I was scared shi*less." Makenna added that if Roula had continued to move, the situation could have worsened.
Official Statements
Big Bear Mountain Resort emphasized the importance of safety protocols, reminding guests to lower the safety bar and avoid engaging in dangerous behavior while on lifts. A spokesperson for the resort stated, "This incident serves as a reminder for guests to lower the safety bar and refrain from engaging in potentially dangerous or distracting behavior while riding lifts."
Reflection and Future Implications
Despite the frightening experience, Roula and her friends expressed that this incident would not deter them from skiing in the future. Roula noted the adrenaline and survival instincts that kicked in during the crisis, stating, "It’s crazy what your body does in fight or flight." Raizel highlighted the role of the safety bar in preventing a more serious outcome, urging others to prioritize safety while skiing.
Conclusion
The incident at Big Bear Mountain Resort serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of horseplay on ski lifts. While Roula De Miranda-Arce and her friends were fortunate to escape without serious injuries, the event underscores the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in recreational activities.
