Influencer dies after trying to save woman swept out to sea
An influencerand is among three people who have tragically died after trying to rescue a drowning woman who had been swept out to sea.
American-Chilean beer influencer Benjamin “Ben” Robert Wood, 43, tried to save the woman after a strong wave knocked the woman down and dragged her into the sea while walking along a shoreline in Algarrobo, Chile. The woman was identified as 26-year-old lawyer and parliamentary adviser Patricia del Pilar Bello Labe.
The incident, which happened on Monday night, also saw the woman's partner try and save her, but also struggled against the water. Her partner Felipe Hernández Bustos was rescued by Navy personnel in a naval helicopter.
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Patricia sadly drowned before she could be saved, along with the three people who tried to save her.
Other victims of the incident have been reported as Ben’s father, Norman Ray Wood, 77, and María José Duarte Ureta, 47, Ben’s partner. Police are reportedly investigating the incident.
Benjamin “Ben” Robert Wood, who was born in Connecticut, had lived in Chile for nearly 13 years. He was known as a food influencer and co-founded the burger chain El Honesto Mike.
He was active on social media and often shared food recipes and tips. He boasted 37,400 Instagram followers and, in one if his final Instagram posts, reflected on his career.
He wrote: “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."
He continued: "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."
Ben's followers shared their condolences online as one person wrote: "Sad news, great hero together with his father and people who accompanied him, R.I.P. great entrepreneur too".
Another added: "Condolences to the family. You left trying to help people, which speaks to the kindness of your heart. May you rest in peace", while another wrote: " can't believe it. May he rest in peace ."
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