A man was killed in an apparent shark attack in Oahu.
Tamayo Perry, a celebrated surfer and actor, tragically passed away following a possible shark attack on June 23, off the coast of O’ahu. Perry, 49, known for his role in “Pirates of the Caribbean” and his exceptional lifeguard skills, had taken a surf break from his lifeguarding near Goat Island, just off Mālaekahana Beach.
Emergency responders received a call at approximately 1:00 PM, alerting them to a man in the water who had “multiple shark bites.” Perry, who was missing an arm and a leg was pulled from the water by a jet ski and declared deceased.
Without direct witnesses to a shark attack, it is plausible Perry could have suffered a medical emergency and was then attacked or scavenged by a shark. An autopsy will confirm the exact cause of death.
Perry’s death has sent shockwaves through both the surfing and entertainment communities. The professional surfer was known worldwide for his fearless approach to catching some of the world’s most dangerous waves. Friends said he was full of love with an infectious personality. His acting career included notable roles in major films, “including Blue Crush”, and TV shows, making him a beloved figure on and off the waves.
Local authorities have issued warnings to beachgoers and surfers, urging caution in the waters around O’ahu. Following standard shark attack protocol, beaches near the area will be closed.
The community is planning a memorial paddle-out in Perry’s honor, a traditional tribute among surfers to celebrate the life of a fellow wave rider.
Tiger sharks and occasionally great white sharks have been spotted around the islands. Tiger sharks are responsible for the majority of serious injury-related shark attack cases in Hawaii.
Another Shark Attack on Oahu
An unidentified woman was bitten by a shark on June 7 off the North Shore. The 25-year-old was in the waters off the Haleiwa area around 2:00 PM when she was attacked. Paramedics arrived at the Haleiwa Boat Harbor and transported her to the emergency room in serious condition.
Earlier this year, an 11-year-old was injured by a marine creature. The unidentified girl was swimming on March 2 at a spot known as the Rainbows in Kaaawa. Around 1:30 PM, she suffered an injury to her left foot. Witnesses reported seeing a small reef shark in the area. The girl’s parents declined medical transport for the minor injury.
Shark Attack on the Mainland
A man was bitten by a shark in North Carolina. The unidentified man was swimming off Sunset Beach on June 18 when he was bitten on the leg. Emergency personnel were called to East Main Street around 11:23 AM to assist the 20-year-old man. The man was taken to the hospital for treatment.
While shark attacks, especially fatal ones, are concerning, the number of people injured is relatively small when compared to the total number of people in the water every day. More people drown each year than are killed by sharks. In the last week, six people died due to rip currents in the Gulf alone. Keeping an eye on beach conditions and safety flags can help prevent injuries and even death.
All shark attack locations have been marked on the 2024 Shark Attack Map.
