Tamayo Perry, a talented surfer, lifeguard, and actor, has tragically lost his life after an apparent shark attack off the coast of Oahu. Known not only for his surfing expertise but also for his roles in popular media such as “Blue Crush” and “Hawaii Five-0,” Perry's passing has left a profound impact on the community. His dedication to the ocean and the safety of others has made him a beloved figure among locals and fellow surfers.
The incident occurred at Mālaekahana Beach, also referred to as Goat Island, where Perry was surfing on a Sunday afternoon. At just 49 years old, his life was cut short, following an attack that resulted in multiple shark bites, according to officials from Honolulu Emergency Services. The tragedy has sparked conversations about ocean safety and the risks that come with enjoying the waters of Hawaii.
As the community mourns, Perry is remembered not just for his professional accomplishments but for his warm personality and the love he had for those around him. His colleagues and friends have expressed their sorrow, sharing anecdotes that highlight his infectious spirit and the joy he brought to others. This devastating event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the importance of safety measures.
Tamayo Perry, a surfer, lifeguard, and actor with a resume that included roles in “Blue Crush” and “Hawaii Five-0,” has died after an apparent shark attack off Oahu’s North Shore.
The 49-year-old was surfing at Mālaekahana Beach lake, also known as Goat Island, on the northeast coast of the island, and died Sunday afternoon in the attack, Shayne Enright of the Honolulu Emergency Services Department said Monday in a statement to the Los Angeles Times.
Honolulu Ocean Safety and the city’s fire, police, and emergency medical services departments responded to the beach just before 1 p.m. after a caller reported seeing a man who appeared to have suffered “more than one shark bite,” Enright said. Lifeguards brought Perry to shore by jet ski and paramedics assisted with the death pronouncement.
After the incident, Ocean Safety personnel posted shark warnings in the area, Enright said.
According to news station KHON 2, Honolulu Ocean Safety acting chief Kurt Lager said that Perry, whom he described as “one of our own,” was a lifeguard and professional surfer “loved by all.” Perry worked as a lifeguard on the North Shore and began his career with the Ocean Safety department in July 2016.
A surfer grabbed Perry after the incident and brought him to the island, Lager said at a news conference.
“Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by all. He was well-known on the North Shore. He’s a professional surfer known worldwide,” Lager said. “Tamayo’s personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more. Our condolences go out to Tamayo’s family and to the entire lifeguard ohana.”
