Food influencer Ben Wood has tragically died at the age of 43 after heroically attempting to rescue a young woman from drowning at a beach in Chile. The incident occurred on Monday evening in Algarrobo, where Wood, originally from Connecticut but a resident of Chile for nearly 13 years, was present with family.
Fatal Rescue Attempt Unfolds
Around 7pm local time, a 26-year-old woman was swept out into the ocean by strong currents, sparking a desperate series of rescue efforts. According to local media reports, the woman's partner, Wood, his wife María José Duarte Ureta, 47, and Wood's father Norman Ray Wood, 77, who was visiting Chile, all rushed into the water to save her.
However, large waves quickly overwhelmed all four rescuers, pulling them out to sea. Tragically, Ben Wood and his father Norman died in the water. Wood's wife was pulled from the ocean alive but later succumbed to her injuries in hospital, as confirmed by the Chilean Forensic Medical Service and reported by O Globo.
Lone Survivor
In a heartbreaking turn of events, only the woman's partner survived the ordeal. He was rescued from the water by the Chilean Navy using a naval helicopter. Authorities are currently investigating the incident, with preliminary findings suggesting all four victims died from drowning.
A high-wave warning had been in effect in the area over the weekend, highlighting the dangerous conditions that contributed to this tragedy.
Family Tributes and Legacy
Wood's daughter confirmed his death in a poignant post to his Instagram Stories on March 11, remembering him for his "tremendous love for his work, his life, his passion." The tribute continued: "March 9th will be for you and to remember how you gave your lives for others, as you did so many times before. I love you to the moon and back."
Influencer Career
Ben Wood had built a significant following on social media through his content focused on burgers and craft beer, amassing 37,400 Instagram followers. In what would become his final post, he reflected on his career journey in Chile since 2013, mentioning his work in beer and gastronomy that included opening a unique craft beer store.
That initial venture sparked several other projects such as Alameda Beer Co and El Honesto Mike, which helped shape Chile's craft beer scene. Wood noted that while his beloved venture Beervana had recently closed, he remained "determined and focused on doing even more with Craftwork Chile - a phoenix rising from the ashes for me."
This tragic incident follows the recent death of fellow influencer Carolina Reyes, known online as 'Carol the Warrior,' who died of cancer at age 23. Her family described her as a "brilliant human being who never gave up in the face of any difficulty," asking for respect and empathy during their difficult time.
