Beloved Lifeguard and Surfer Tamayo Perry Dies in Shark Attack off Oahu’s North Shore
Tamayo Perry, a 49-year-old native Hawaiian and respected lifeguard, was killed in a tragic shark attack off Goat Island on Oahu’s North Shore on June 23. According to Honolulu officials, Perry, a veteran of the city’s Ocean Safety team, was pulled to shore by fellow lifeguards on a Jet Ski and pronounced dead at the scene.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi mourned Perry’s loss, praising his bravery, dedication, and deep commitment to public safety. Acting Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager described Perry as “loved by all.”
Known for his fearless surfing and charisma, Perry was a standout at the world-famous Pipeline surf break and also appeared in films such as Blue Crush, Pirates of the Caribbean, and shows like Hawaii Five-O. He and his wife, Emilia, ran a surf school on the North Shore.