Pirates of the Caribbean actor Tamayo Perry has died after being found with shark bites on his body. He was surfing off Goat Island, near Hawaii.
Tamayo Perry, found dead with shark bites PHOTO: FB
The actor died on Sunday at 1:00 p.m., Honolulu emergency medical services announced, according to the Mirror publication.
Officials told the Star-Advertiser that Tamayo was brought to shore by lifeguards on a jet ski. The intervention teams believe that the actor may have suffered several shark bites.
His family has requested privacy at this time. The public was also warned not to enter the water, with shark warning signs placed in the area.
Kurt Lager, acting head of Ocean Safety, issued a statement following his death and said: “Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by all, well known on the North Shore, a professional surfer known around the world.”
“Tamayo’s personality was contagious and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else. Our condolences go out to Tamayo’s family and the entire lifeguard ohana. We are asking for some privacy for his family at this time.” added Kurt Lager, Acting Chief of Ocean Safety.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi urged fans to respect the family’s wishes for privacy. He said death was a “tragic loss” and added that “Tamayo was a legendary and highly respected waterman.”
Tamayo’s friend Jason Bitzer also shared a tribute on Facebook.
“The things I have seen! My brother in Christ, I love you brother! Tamayo, I won’t get over this until I see you in heaven. Tamayo Perry you were not my friend you were my brother the pain we feel together is immense”Jason Bitzer wrote.
Tamayo had been surfing for more than 15 years and taught others through the Oahu Surfing Experience with his wife, Emilia Perry.
In addition to Pirates of the Caribbean, Tamayo has appeared in Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and Blue Crush.
He has also worked on a number of advertising campaigns for companies such as Coca-Cola and Nissan Xterra.
