‘Loved by all’: Well-known city lifeguard, surfer dies after suffering apparent shark bite
KAHUKU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A well-known city lifeguard died Sunday after suffering an apparent shark bite off Oahu’s North Shore, the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department said.
Officials identified him as Tamayo Perry, 49, a North Shore lifeguard who joined Ocean Safety in 2016.
“Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by all, well-known on the North Shore, a professional surfer known world-wide around the world,” Acting Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager said, speaking a news conference Sunday.
”Tamayo’s personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more.”
Lager also offered his condolences to Perry’s family as said they’re asking for privacy.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also spoke at the news conference, calling Perry’s death a “tragic loss.”
“Tamayo was a legendary waterman and highly respected, a great member of our Ocean Safety team,” he said.
In a later statement, he said:
“As we grieve this unimaginable loss, we are reminded of the inherent risks faced by our lifeguards daily, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their service.”
“The City and County of Honolulu stands with our Ocean Safety community and will provide all necessary support during this period 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 Malaekahana Beach near Kahuku about 1 p.m. for a report of a surfer who had sustained fatal injuries.
A spokesperson said the caller told dispatchers the victim appeared to suffer more than one shark bite. Officials said lifeguards used a Jet Ski to bring Perry’s body to shore, where he was pronounced dead.
The investigation is ongoing.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help support Perry’s family during this difficult time. If you’d like to donate, click here.
The story may be updated.
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