A mother of two died after becoming trapped for several hours in a 20-foot well in rural Northern California, according to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. Britney Willison, 35, was discovered in the well in the Fruitland area of southern Humboldt County on June 17.
Willison, a resident of Garberville, was housesitting for a friend when she went to the well the night before to check the house’s water system. She fell into the well and remained there for more than 12 hours before emergency crews found her. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office ruled her death an accident, attributing it to "acute asphyxial brain injury due to submersion in water in a well due to physical-mechanical entrapment in a well."
The investigation into her death has concluded, with a toxicology report pending. A friend told The California Post that Willison ran out of water while housesitting and decided to address the issue herself.
According to the friend and rescue crews, there was insufficient oxygen in the well, and it was too late to save her. The friend described Willison as a "dedicated mother," an "active community member," and someone who was always willing to help those in need, offering support and generosity. She also enjoyed hiking and had posted photos from the Lost Coast Trail.
Willison worked at a local apparel store called the Bootleg in Garberville and attended South Fork High School. A candlelight vigil was held for her on June 24, and a memorial service was scheduled for July 26.