A hero diver who helped rescue 12 young footballers and their coach from a flooded Thai cave has died aged 44.
Canadian Erik Brown played a vital role in the extraordinary 2018 Tham Luang rescue operation that gripped the world.
The specialist diver helped transport air cylinders and equipment through the cave, installed and maintained guidelines and supported the chain of divers working through its flooded passages.
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His involvement in the dramatic rescue later earned him Canada’s Medal of Bravery, as reported by Need To Know.
According to Erik’s own account, he spent an astonishing 63 hours inside the cave across nine days and seven separate missions.
The operation was launched after 12 members of the Wild Boars football team, aged between 11 and 16, and their coach became trapped deep inside the Tham Luang cave complex.
Their eventual rescue became an international sensation and has since inspired films, documentaries, a Netflix series and books.
Friends and family announced Erik’s death on 26 September, although the exact date and cause of his death have not been confirmed.
Tributes have since poured in for the diver, with loved ones remembering him as the “brightest light”.
One friend wrote: “He was the brightest light, a dear friend, and one of the kindest humans I have ever met.
“I was instantly drawn to him and loved him like a brother. As he moved abroad I loved watching him create his life in the farthest reaches of the planet.. some of the deepest depths of the seas.
“My heart is heavy for his family and close friends and I send my deepest condolences.”
Another person said: “I can’t quite believe you’re gone, so incredibly lucky to have known and loved you.”
One mourner wrote: “RIP hero, your name will be remembered.”
Another person added: “Sad news, it has been a pleasure meeting you on the rock. RIP Erik.”
And one tribute read: “RIP Erik, it has been a pleasure and honour knowing you.”
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