Diane L. Wittig dies in fatal MacKerricher State Park ocean accident

Diane L. Wittig dies in fatal MacKerricher State Park ocean accident

Fatal MacKerricher State Park ocean accident death of Diane L. Wittig – Obituary

Authorities have confirmed that 77-year-old Diane L. Wittig of Fort Bragg lost her life after being swept into the ocean by a large wave at MacKerricher State Park last week. The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office announced her identification on Monday and has notified her legal next of kin.

According to officials, Wittig was standing on a rock at MacKerricher Beach around 2 p.m. on December 22 when a powerful wave knocked her into the water. Onlookers quickly pulled her to shore, but she had already lost consciousness and was unresponsive. Emergency responders performed advanced resuscitation efforts at the scene, but she was pronounced dead.

A preliminary autopsy on December 23 determined the cause of death as acute asphyxial brain injury from submersion in water, consistent with drowning. The final cause and manner of death are still pending completion of investigative reports by a forensic pathologist.

Authorities reported that the incident showed no signs of foul play and was witnessed by bystanders. Wittig appeared to be visiting the park alone, and initial reports noted that no identification documents were found on her person.

Wittig, a native of Fort Bragg, attended Fort Bragg High School, according to a December 24 report by the Mendocino Voice. The coroner’s investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death continues.