Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Hiker Drowns in San Gabriel River; Safety Warning Issued

3/4/2026

48 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao, 33, drowned Sunday in the San Gabriel River while hiking the Bridge to Nowhere in Angeles National Forest.
A runner alerted rescuers that Aguilar had fallen in.
The San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team warned hikers about river safety and swift-water hazards.
The Bridge to Nowhere trail had recently reopened after a year-long closure due to a major fire.

History

Historical Context

The Angeles National Forest, established in 1908, has faced numerous wildfires, including the devastating Station Fire in 2009, which burned a quarter of the forest. In 2020, a wildfire affected 1,000 acres, prompting closures and safety warnings. The tragic drowning of Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao highlights ongoing risks for hikers in areas recovering from such environmental disasters.

1 of 2

Story summary

Jaqueline Aguilar De Lao, 33, drowned Sunday in the San Gabriel River while hiking the Bridge to Nowhere in Angeles National Forest.
A runner alerted rescuers that Aguilar had fallen in.
The San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team warned hikers about river safety and swift-water hazards.
The Bridge to Nowhere trail had recently reopened after a year-long closure due to a major fire.

1 / 2