Authorities ID woman killed after fall through skylight

Officials have identified Erika Brisendine as the 20-year-old woman who fell through a skylight at the gymnasium of the Columbia Falls High School on July 31.

Brisendine and two others had climbed to the roof of the building in the early morning hours when she plunged through a skylight, authorities said in a press release issued Monday. First responders, arriving about 2:25 a.m., offered first aid, but Brisendine succumbed to her injuries.

A GoFundMe has been set up to aid Brisendine’s family. In it, she was described as a “free spirit, full of life, love and laughter.” Along with donations, the GoFundMe asks for prayers for her friends, extended family and the first responders on scene.

Money raised will go toward funeral expenses, but any excess dollars will be rerouted to replace the gymnasium’s skylights and secure access points to the roof.

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.