Tamayo Perry, aged 49, was a distinguished waterman from North Shore and had dedicated eight years of service to Honolulu Ocean Safety, as stated by Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.
With deep sorrow, we express our condolences for the loss of a remarkably devoted lifeguard from the City and County of Honolulu, who tragically lost his life today in what appears to be a shark attack on the North Shore,” stated Blangiardi. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fellow Ocean Safety personnel during this profoundly challenging period.
Perry demonstrated exceptional courage, steadfast commitment, and a profound sense of responsibility, serving our community with relentless dedication. His valorous deeds and unflagging efforts to safeguard our residents and visitors will always be remembered,” Blangiardi remarked.
The Honolulu Emergency Services Department released a statement indicating that a surfer sustained fatal injuries due to a shark attack near Goat Island on June 23, shortly before 1 p.m. local time.
A caller to emergency services indicated that the surfer’s body exhibited numerous bite marks.
Lifeguards retrieved his body from the water using a Jet Ski, and emergency medical services pronounced him dead at the location, according to officials.
The surfer was identified as Perry, as confirmed by Ocean Safety. Acting Chief Kurt Lager of Honolulu Ocean Safety remarked during a press conference, ‘Tamayo Perry was a beloved lifeguard.’
Emilia Perry, a fellow surfer, remarked about her husband, “Although his passing is tragic, he departed this life while engaging in his passion, in a place he cherished.” According to Surfer magazine, Perry was celebrated for his skills at Pipeline, one of the most iconic surf breaks situated off Ehukai Beach Park on the northern coast of Oahu.
The Encyclopedia of Surfing highlights that he shared a close friendship with musician Jack Johnson and was born and raised on the eastern side of Oahu. Together with his wife, Perry operated a surf school on the North Shore of Oahu.
On Monday, messages of sympathy flooded in from the surfing community. “This is difficult to comprehend,” wrote surfing icon Kelly Slater, “You truly embraced the life you loved.”]} }}