March 24, 2026 – San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office officials report that on March 22, 2026, at approximately 4:20 P.M., Sheriff’s Dispatch received a 9-1-1 call reporting a man drowning at Lopez Lake.

Deputies responded to assist CAL FIRE, along with other emergency responders, and began a coordinated search of the area. The Sheriff’s Office later assumed the investigation. Reporting parties stated the 25-year-old had been swimming when he became distressed and appeared to be drowning before going underwater. He was not wearing a life preserver. Family members attempted to locate him but were unsuccessful.

The individual has been identified as Sergio MendiolaGarcia, 25, of Santa Maria.

Due to limited visibility, the search was suspended shortly after 8:00 P.M. on March 22, 2026. The search resumed the morning of March 23, 2026, and was conducted by the Sheriff’s Office Underwater Search and Recovery (Dive Team) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Team.

At approximately 11:52 A.M. on March 23, 2026, Sergio was located underwater by divers from the Sheriff’s Office Dive Team.

Next of kin has been notified.

This is a tragic loss, and our thoughts are with Sergio’s family and friends.

Source & photos: San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office