A tragic incident unfolded at Rinconada Beach in Tauca, Cobquecura, where a female surfer lost her life after being struck by a fishing boat. Javiera Ortiz, a talented designer and photographer from Chile, was on her surfboard near the shore when the boat collided with her, causing fatal injuries to her head and arms.
The horrifying event was captured in footage showing the boat approaching the shore, hitting Ms. Ortiz, and then making its way onto the sand as beachgoers rushed to her aid in a panic. Despite emergency teams responding swiftly to the scene, the 34-year-old surfer could not be saved and succumbed to her injuries.
Ms. Ortiz, who was set to marry in two weeks, had relocated to Cobquecura to be with her partner. The news of her untimely death has left her 63,600 Instagram followers in shock, with many leaving heartfelt messages on her page to express their grief and condolences.
Following the tragic accident, authorities arrested a 60-year-old fisherman in connection to Ms. Ortiz’s death. Police chief Pedro Parra Valdivia disclosed that the fisherman, who was operating the vessel, did not see the surfer as he approached the shoreline, resulting in the fatal collision.
The loss of Javiera Ortiz, known for her vibrant energy and talent as a designer and knitter, has deeply impacted those who knew her. Her passion for travel and knitting was evident in her social media posts, where she shared her love for both activities with her followers.
As the community mourns the loss of a beloved member, the incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in recreational activities near the water. The memory of Javiera Ortiz, a cherished individual with a kind heart and creative spirit, will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.