Skier Hangs from Lift in Big Bear: A Look at the Nerve-Wracking Situation
Ski Trip Takes a Scary Turn for Two Sisters in Big Bear
A ski outing in Big Bear turned terrifying for two sisters on Tuesday when one of them became suspended from a moving ski lift. Frightening moments were captured on video, showing the urgency of the situation.
The incident involved 21-year-old twins Roula and Raizel De Miranda-Arce, who were on their third run of the day along with a friend when Roula slipped. An onlooker recorded the tense moments as Roula dangled from the chairlift.
"My friend was screaming at her, ‘stop wiggling.’ She was in panic mode," Raizel recounted to NBCLA.
The video reveals Raizel gripping her sister as Roula hung precariously, her arms outstretched from the carrier.
"My body was in so much pain," Roula stated. "I was so scared. I looked down and kept seeing my death."
Witness Pierce Mayer expressed his disbelief while recording the incident. "I was watching each of the chairs come over the hill," he noted. "The lift starts down the hill. The girl could have been hanging there for much longer than it looks like in the video."
According to ski resort personnel, the situation unfolded around 3 p.m. due to a failure to adhere to safety protocols, resulting in the skier becoming suspended. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but officials emphasized that the incident underscores the importance of following safety measures.
Raizel explained that she attempted a pull-up as the lift ascended. When Roula tried to do the same, she lost her grip and fell off.
Ultimately, Roula was safely lowered to the ground.
"I love my sister and my friend," she expressed gratefully. "I’m so thankful they saved me."
