Clara Thomann, a 33-year-old science teacher from Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, California, tragically fell to her death while hiking near the Preveli Monastery in Crete during a holiday trip with her partner.

Thomann, who was six months pregnant, slipped and plunged 164 feet into a gorge around noon on December 23, according to local reports. Her partner, Elliot Finn, alerted authorities at approximately 2 p.m., prompting a rescue operation involving 21 firefighters, 10 fire trucks, and specialized rescue teams.

Rescue crews reached Thomann, provided first aid, and transported her to a safe location where emergency services awaited. She was taken to Rethymno Hospital while still conscious, but due to the severity of her injuries, she was later transferred to the intensive care unit at Chania General Hospital.

Thomann suffered extensive injuries, including fractures to her skull, chest, and leg. Her unborn child, whom the couple planned to name Theodoro, did not survive the fall, according to a family statement on Caring Bridge.

Despite medical efforts, Thomann was declared brain dead on December 29.

“Injuries sustained by Clara were insurmountable, and she was pronounced brain dead,” her family shared.

Honoring her wishes as an organ donor, Thomann’s heart, liver, and pancreas were donated to save other lives, her family confirmed in their statement.