Tamayo Perry, a well-known surfer and lifeguard, tragically lost his life in a shark attack on June 23 near Goat Island, off Oahu’s northeastern coast. The incident occurred while he was surfing during a lunch break from his lifeguard duties. His body was found by a group of surfers, and multiple shark bites were reported by a 911 caller.
According to Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, shark attacks are very rare, with only three to four occurring per year, and fatal attacks being extremely rare. Perry’s death has left the community in mourning, with Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi expressing profound sadness over the loss.
Who was Tamayo Perry?
Perry, a native Hawaiian and eight-year veteran of Ocean Safety, was known for his bravery and commitment to serving the community. He began surfing at a young age and became legendary at Pipeline, competing in various events and even appearing in films and TV shows such as “Lost” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.”
In an official statement, Honolulu Ocean Safety Acting Chief Kurt Lager described Perry as a lifeguard loved by all and a professional surfer known worldwide. He emphasized Perry’s infectious personality and the love he had for everyone around him.
The tragic loss of Tamayo Perry serves as a reminder of the dangers that come with activities like surfing in the ocean. Despite the rarity of shark attacks, it is essential for beachgoers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Perry’s legacy as a dedicated lifeguard and talented surfer will never be forgotten.
The community is left grieving the loss of a beloved member, while also coming together to honor Perry’s memory and the impact he had on those around him. As the investigation into the shark attack continues, authorities are urging caution and vigilance when partaking in water activities along Hawaii’s beautiful coastlines.
