**Surfer and Actor Tamayo Perry Killed by Shark in Hawaii**
HONOLULU – The surfing community is mourning the loss of Tamayo Perry, a professional surfer, lifeguard, and actor, who was tragically killed in a shark attack on Sunday. Perry, 49, was surfing near Goat Island on Oahu’s North Shore when the incident occurred.
**The Incident**
According to Honolulu Ocean Safety, emergency services, including EMS, fire, and police, responded to the scene around 1 p.m. local time. A 911 call reported that the victim had suffered multiple shark bites. Acting Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager confirmed Perry’s identity during a news conference, stating, “At this time, we can confirm that it was one of our own City and County of Honolulu lifeguards, North Shore Lifeguard Tamayo Perry.”
Perry was paddling out to Goat Island with other surfers when he was attacked. Another surfer managed to bring Perry to the island, where EMS teams later recovered his body. Despite the quick response, Perry was pronounced dead at the scene.
**A Life Dedicated to the Ocean**
Tamayo Perry was a well-known figure in the surfing world. He won the Pipe Masters Trials in 1999 and was renowned for his skills at Teahupoo in Tahiti. Beyond his surfing accolades, Perry also made a name for himself in Hollywood, with roles in “Blue Crush,” “Hawaii Five-O,” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.”
Perry’s contributions to the community extended beyond his professional achievements. He worked as a lifeguard on Oahu’s North Shore, a region famous for its challenging surf spots like the Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay. Perry began his career with the Ocean Safety department in July 2016 and was known for his infectious personality and dedication to helping others.
**Tributes and Reactions**
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from around the world. Kelly Slater, an 11-time World Surf League champion and occasional competitor of Perry, expressed his sorrow on Instagram, saying, “RIP brother. Thank you for your service as a lifeguard on the North Shore, holding it down at Pipeline for decades… You truly lived the life you loved.”
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi described Perry as a “legendary waterman” and a highly respected figure in the community. “Tamayo’s personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more,” Blangiardi said.
**Shark Attacks in Hawaii**
Shark attacks in Hawaiian waters are relatively rare, with about three or four incidents reported annually, according to Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources. However, the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) database notes that Oahu has experienced 42 unprovoked shark encounters since 1828, second only to Maui, which has had 75.
The ISAF reported an increase in shark attacks and human fatalities in 2023, with 69 unprovoked bites worldwide, 10 of which were fatal. Researchers suggest that climate change may be a contributing factor, as warmer sea temperatures drive sharks into new areas in search of cooler waters.
**A Lasting Legacy**
Perry’s impact on the surfing world and his community is undeniable. He and his wife, Emilia Perry, a professional bodyboarder and stuntperson, ran a surfing school together in Oahu. Emilia moved to Hawaii from Western Australia at 18 and met Tamayo while bodyboarding at Pipeline. The couple’s shared passion for the ocean and dedication to teaching others about surf safety and etiquette has left a lasting legacy.
Perry’s website reflects his commitment to sharing his knowledge and experiences. He wrote about a near-fatal accident while surfing the Pipeline, stating, “The lessons I’ve taken from that event have inspired me to my goal of instilling proper surf etiquette and safety into those whom I teach.”
**Conclusion**
The loss of Tamayo Perry is a significant blow to the surfing community and the many lives he touched through his work as a lifeguard, surfer, and actor. His legacy will continue through the countless individuals he inspired and taught, both in and out of the water.
As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a man who truly lived his passion and dedicated himself to the safety and enjoyment of others in the ocean.
**Source:** Honolulu Ocean Safety, Surfline, International Shark Attack File, Hawaii News Now, CBS News, Surfer Magazine, Stab Magazine, World Surf League.
