what happened to leslie in bridge to terabithia

Leslie dies in a tragic accident near the creek in Bridge to Terabithia. The rope they use to cross breaks, she falls into the water, hits her head, and drowns.

What happened

• Jess is away when the accident happens.
• Leslie goes to Terabithia alone.
• The crossing fails, and the creek’s conditions lead to her drowning.

Why it matters

Her death is the story’s turning point: Jess is forced to confront grief, loss, and the reality that Terabithia was meaningful not because it was “fake,” but because it helped him grow.

If you want, I can also give you a very short spoiler-free version or explain the ending in simple terms.