A tragedy has struck the Utah canyoneering community. Three friends – David Bell, Jeannine Skinner, and Peter On – lost their lives in a Sierra Nevada rappelling accident on Friday night.
The group of 13 were exploring the “Seven Teacups” area in Tulare County, California, when disaster struck. According to a Facebook post by Bell’s sister, Jeannine was caught in a whirlpool while rappelling. In a selfless act, Peter descended to help her, followed by David. Sadly, all three were swept away and drowned.
David was known and cherished for his adventurous spirit and kind heart. A former athlete at Southern Utah University, he later became a successful entrepreneur, owning a running store and event management company, Runtasic Events. This company organizes popular races across Utah, including the Haunted Half, Thankful Half, Run of Remembrance, and the upcoming Nebo Marathon and Half Marathon.
Friends remember David as a man who brought people together. He loved creating positive experiences – from his running store to his meticulously planned races that offered more than just competition, but a chance to connect and celebrate.
Jeannine and David were described as having an on-again, off-again relationship for several years. Just two weeks before the accident, David expressed his desire to marry her.
Details about Peter On remain scarce, but the loss is deeply felt by the entire community.
A memorial event for David and Jeannine will be held on Wednesday at Classic Skating in Sandy by Country Swing Dancing, a group they both participated in. Information regarding Peter is yet to be determined.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover David’s funeral costs and transport him back to Utah. It’s unclear if similar initiatives exist for Jeannine and Peter.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in outdoor activities. As the Utah canyoneering community mourns the loss of these three friends, their bravery and selflessness will not be forgotten.
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