lifeguard and surf instructor, who appeared in films such as Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Blue Crush, tragically passed away on Sunday due to a suspected shark attack on Oahu’s North Shore, Hawaii. The man, identified as Tamayo Perry, 49, was highly regarded as a skilled waterman on the North Shore and had been a lifeguard with Honolulu Ocean Safety for eight years, according to a statement made by Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of one of our incredibly dedicated City and County of Honolulu lifeguards, who tragically lost his life today in what appears to be a shark attack on the North Shore,” Blangiardi expressed. “Our thoughts and hearts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues in Ocean Safety during this immensely difficult time.”

Mayor Blangiardi further described Perry as someone who “exemplified bravery, commitment, and an extraordinary sense of duty.” He praised Perry’s dedication to his work, noting that Perry’s “heroic actions and tireless efforts to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors will never be forgotten.”

The Honolulu Emergency Services Department also released a statement, confirming that a surfer had been “fatally injured” in a shark attack near Goat Island on June 23, just before 1 p.m. local time. The emergency call reported that the surfer’s body had multiple bite wounds, and lifeguards brought him ashore using a Jet Ski. Upon arrival, paramedics from EMS declared him dead at the scene. Ocean Safety later confirmed the surfer’s identity as Tamayo Perry.

Acting Chief Kurt Lager of Honolulu Ocean Safety held a press conference where he spoke about Perry’s positive impact, saying, “Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by all.”

Perry’s wife, Emilia Perry, who is also a surfer, reflected on her husband’s life and passing with poignant words. She said, “Though his passing is tragic, Tamayo left this world doing what he loved, in the place he loved most.” Her words captured the deep connection Perry had with the ocean and his passion for surfing.

According to Surfer magazine, Perry was widely respected in the surfing community for his expertise, particularly at Pipeline, one of the most renowned surf breaks in the world, located off Ehukai Beach Park on Oahu’s northern coastline. His remarkable talent as a surfer had earned him widespread admiration.

The Encyclopedia of Surfing notes that Perry was not only known for his skill in the water but also for his close friendship with singer Jack Johnson. Perry was born and raised on the east side of Oahu, and his connection to the island and its waters was a central part of his identity.

Tamayo and his wife, Emilia, ran a surf school together on Oahu’s North Shore, sharing their love for the ocean and their passion for surfing with others.

The day after Perry’s passing, an outpouring of condolences and tributes flooded in from the surfing community and beyond. Many expressed their disbelief and sorrow over his untimely death. Surfing legend Kelly Slater wrote, “This one is hard to believe… You truly lived the life you loved.”

Perry’s legacy as a skilled surfer, dedicated lifeguard, and beloved member of the Oahu community will undoubtedly be remembered by all who knew him. His contributions to ocean safety and the impact he made on the lives of those he helped will leave a lasting mark.