KAHUKU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A city lifeguard died Sunday after an apparent shark bite off the North Shore of Oahu, according to the Honolulu Department of Ocean Safety.
Authorities identified him as 49-year-old Tamayo Perry. He was a lifeguard on the North Shore and joined Ocean Safety in 2016.
“Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by everyone, well known on the North Shore, and a professional surfer known worldwide. Tamayo’s personality was contagious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone more,” said Acting Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager.
“Our condolences go out to Tamayo’s family and to all Ohana rescuer. We ask for some privacy for his family at this time.
“It’s a tragic loss. Tamayo was a legendary and well-respected sailor, a tremendous member of our ocean safety team,” Mayor Rick Blangiardi said during a news conference at the scene.
In a later statement, Blangiardi said: “As we mourn this unimaginable loss, we remember the inherent risks our rescuers face daily, and we express our deepest gratitude for their service. »
He added, “The City and County of Honolulu stands with our ocean safety community and will provide whatever support is needed during this time of mourning. We ask the community to join us in honoring his memory and to keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.
Honolulu EMS officials said they responded to a 911 call for a surfer who was fatally injured before 1 p.m. off Malaekahana Beach near Kahuku.
A spokesperson said a caller told dispatchers the body appeared to have suffered more than one shark bite.
Officials said rescuers used a jet ski to bring Perry’s body to shore, where he was pronounced dead.
The investigation is ongoing.
The story may be updated.
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