Tragic Death of California Mother Found Dead in 20-Foot Well

A mother was discovered dead after becoming trapped for several hours inside a 20-foot well in rural Northern California.

Britney Willison, 35, was found in the well in the Fruitland area of southern Humboldt County on June 17, according to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office.

She was housesitting for a friend when she went to check the water system the night before. Somehow, she fell down the well and remained there for more than 12 hours before emergency crews made the horrifying discovery.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office ruled her death an accident, citing “acute asphyxial brain injury due to submersion in water in a well due to physical-mechanical entrapment in a well” as the cause of death.

Officials concluded the investigation into her death. A toxicology report is still pending.

A friend of Willison’s stated that she ran out of water while housesitting.

“Being a very independent strong woman, she went to the well house to fix the problem herself,” the friend explained.

The friend added that rescue crews indicated “there was no oxygen in the well and there wouldn’t have been time to do anything” to save Willison.

The friend described Willison as a “dedicated mother” and “an active community member.”

“Kind, sweet, loved her kids, loved taking care of her plants and flowers, loved helping others, and was an inspiration to be around,” the friend said.

Willison worked at a local apparel store called the Bootleg in nearby Garberville.

She attended South Fork High School in nearby Miranda, according to her Facebook page. She showed an interest in hiking, posting several photos from the famous nearby Lost Coast Trail.

Her family, including her sons, held a candlelight vigil outside her former store on June 24. One family member expressed they were “humbled by the outpouring of support and positive vibes as we adjust to life without Brit.”

A memorial service will be held July 26, where friends and family will “celebrate the life and cherish the memories of Britney.”