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.

Emilia shared that her husband died “doing what he loved, where he loved to do it.” The global surfing community, including icons like Kelly Slater and Moana Jones Wong, paid tribute to Perry’s vibrant spirit and lasting legacy.

Tamayo Perry is remembered not just as a lifeguard and surfer, but as a beloved waterman and pillar of his community.