An American food influencer and three others died after being swept out to sea during a rescue attempt.
The tragedy unfolded around 7pm on Monday (9 Mar) when lawyer and parliamentary adviser Patricia del Pilar “Pilar” Bello Labe was walking along the coastline and was carried away by a large wave.
Her partner, Felipe Hernández Bustos, rushed into the water to save the 26-year-old, sparking a chain of rescue attempts.
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According to witnesses, three others also entered the water to help but were pulled out to sea in Algarrobo, Chile.
Only Felipe survived, rescued by Navy personnel in a naval helicopter.
One of the victims has been identified as Benjamin Robert “Ben” Wood.
Born in Connecticut, the 43-year-old had lived in Chile for nearly 13 years and was a prominent figure in the local gastronomy scene, co-founding the burger chain El Honesto Mike.
On social media, he often shared recipes and tips, highlighting the use of beer in cooking, as reported by Need To Know.
In what would be his final post for his 37,400 Instagram followers, Ben reflected on his career: “I’ve been working in beer and gastronomy here in Chile since 2013, when we opened a unique craft beer store.
“That shop sparked several other projects (like Alameda Beer Co and El Honesto Mike) that helped shape the scene here in Chile.
“At the end of February, my beloved venture Beervana closed its doors.
“I haven’t been part of the company for a few years, but the memories of my first venture here are incredibly powerful.
“Even though I didn’t achieve everything I wanted with the brand, I’m now determined and focused on doing even more with Craftwork Chile – a phoenix rising from the ashes for me.”
The third victim was Ben’s father, Norman Ray Wood, 77, who was visiting Chile.
The final victim was María José Duarte Ureta, 47, Ben’s partner and head of sales at the brewpub Cervecería Tropera.
Her daughter María Ignacia described her as “an incredible woman, with an unbreakable will and so much love to give”.
Pilar and Felipe were from Puerto Montt and were visiting Algarrobo. A high-wave warning had been in effect in the area over the weekend.
Police are investigating the incident. Authorities currently believe all four victims died from drowning.
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