A 35-year-old Northern California woman died after falling into a 20-foot well in rural Humboldt County, authorities reported. Britney Willison, a resident of Garberville, was found deceased in the well in the Fruitland area on June 17, following more than 12 hours trapped below.

According to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, Willison was housesitting for a friend and had gone to inspect the property’s water system the evening before. During this time, she fell into the well and was unable to escape. Emergency responders discovered her a day later.

The sheriff’s office classified the incident as an accident. The official cause of death was identified as “acute asphyxial brain injury due to submersion in water in a well due to physical-mechanical entrapment.” Authorities stated the investigation has been completed, though a toxicology report remains pending.

Willison was remembered by friends and family as a devoted mother and active participant in her community. A candlelight vigil was held on June 24 outside a former store she owned. A memorial service scheduled for July 26 will provide an opportunity for loved ones to honor her life and legacy.