Family launches fundraiser for pregnant widow of man killed at Castle Rock Trail

The family of a San Diego man killed in a rock climbing accident at Big Bear Lake's Castle Rock Trail is asking for help supporting his pregnant widow, who now faces mounting bills and single parenthood.

Andrew Ferrarone, 33, died at a hospital on Wednesday, July 15 — two days after he fell at the Castle Rock Trail area on Sunday, July 12[1]. The accident happened just before 5:30 p.m., when Ferrarone fell down a rocky slope and suffered head trauma, according to San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman Gloria Orejel[1]. First responders performed CPR on scene and hoisted him into a rescue helicopter to be rushed to a trauma center[1]. He remained on life support until his death two days later[1].

Ferrarone, known to family and friends as "Andy," is survived by his wife, identified in the fundraiser as Nina Kim, who was eight weeks pregnant at the time of his death[1]. A flight attendant who had taken time off work when she learned she was expecting, Kim now faces rent, a growing stack of medical bills, and the prospect of raising a child on her own[1].

A GoFundMe campaign organized by Brian Cox on Kim's behalf had raised $51,174 toward a $65,000 goal from 460 donors as of July 29[2]. Those who wish to contribute can find the campaign at gofundme.com/f/support-nina-and-baby (opens in a new tab).

Big Bear News previously reported on Ferrarone's accident in "San Diego man dies after rock climbing accident in Big Bear." This story adds new details about his wife's identity, circumstances, and the fundraiser's progress.