A well-known surfer and lifeguard was killed in a shark attack near the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, emergency officials said.
Tamayo Perry, 49, was attacked in the water off Goat Island midday on Sunday, the Honolulu Emergency Services Department said in a statement.
Perry had been a lifeguard with Honolulu Ocean Safety since 2016. He was a local surf coach and competed for years in the Pipeline Master Trials, according to his official bio on his coaching site.
A sign posted at a beach in Oahu warns of a shark in the area, on the Hawaiian island’s north short on June 23, 2024, in a photo supplied by the Honolulu Emergency Services Department.
Honolulu Emergency Services Department
Perry appeared in the 2002 movie “Blue Crush,” along with episodes of “Hawaii Five-O” and “The Bridge,” according to IMDB.
Perry was a “well-known North Shore waterman,” who “exemplified bravery, commitment and a deep sense of duty,” Mayor Rick Blangiardi said in a statement.
“His heroic actions and tireless efforts to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors will never be forgotten,” the mayor said.
Tamayo Perry, left, who was killed by a shark in the water off Oahu, is seen in an undated photo released by Honolulu Emergency Services Department on Sunday, June 23, 2024.
Honolulu Emergency Services Department
Goat Island sits off Mālaekahana beach on the the northeastern coast of Oahu.
The first emergency call came in at about 1 p.m. on Sunday, officials said. Perry’s body was brought on shore via a jet ski.
“A caller told dispatchers the man’s body appeared to have suffered more than one shark bite,” EMS officials said in a statement.
ABC News’ Felicia Alvarez contributed to this report.
Emergency officials in Hawaii have confirmed the tragic death of a man who was surfing on a pipeline when he was attacked by a shark. The incident occurred off the coast of Hawaii, a popular surfing destination known for its powerful waves and diverse marine life.
The victim, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly surfing on the pipeline when he was attacked by a shark. Emergency officials were called to the scene and attempted to rescue the man, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries before they could reach him.
Shark attacks are rare in Hawaii, but they do occur from time to time. The waters off the coast of Hawaii are home to a variety of shark species, including tiger sharks, bull sharks, and great white sharks. While shark attacks are statistically unlikely, surfers and swimmers are advised to exercise caution when entering the water and to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
In the wake of this tragic incident, officials are reminding beachgoers to follow safety guidelines and to report any shark sightings or suspicious behavior to authorities. It is important for individuals to be vigilant when in the water and to take precautions to minimize the risk of shark attacks.
The death of the pipeline surfer serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk beneath the surface of Hawaii’s beautiful waters. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
