San Diego authorities discovered the body of Bryn Waite on La Jolla Shores Beach early Tuesday morning, a scene that has left the local community reeling.
Waite, 26, had recently relocated to the city, become engaged, and was eagerly planning a wedding. Her Instagram post announcing the engagement, captioned “He Promises,” was accompanied by a series of photos that revealed her excitement.
A standout athlete, she had played Division II soccer at Central Washington University, appearing in at least 15 games and scoring two goals during her collegiate career. The university’s athletics department confirmed that she remained a beloved figure among teammates and coaches.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office said that toxicology and other post‑mortem tests are still pending, and that the cause of death remains undetermined. No signs of foul play have been identified, but the investigation is ongoing.
Waite’s friends and former teammates have taken to social media, expressing disbelief and demanding answers. “We still can’t believe she’s gone,” one close friend wrote, while others have organized vigils in her memory.
A community in mourning
Candles, flowers, and handwritten notes now line the sand at La Jolla Shores, a somber tribute to a life cut short.
Her death follows the June killing of Summer Nash, a former volleyball standout whose body was also recovered from a San Diego shoreline. The consecutive tragedies have sparked concerns about safety for athletes and young women in the area.