Argentine Surfer Drowns in Rapa Nui Accident

Gonzalo Balado, a 40-year-old Argentine surfer from Mar del Plata, has died after drowning in Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. Balado, affectionately called 'El Che' or 'Gonchi,' was surfing in a hazardous rocky area when he experienced an accident.

According to preliminary reports from Chilean media, the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Balado was with two companions when he encountered trouble during a maneuver in a high-risk zone characterized by numerous rocks. Despite the absence of any official warnings about high surf or adverse weather conditions at the time, the accident happened as the surfers were preparing to leave the beach.

His companions managed to pull him from the water and transported him to the Hanga Roa Hospital. Despite 40 minutes of resuscitation efforts, medical personnel were unable to save him, as he had suffered severe immersion asphyxiation. The Provincial Presidential Delegation of Rapa Nui confirmed that the other two surfers involved are stable and out of danger.

Balado had relocated to Rapa Nui a couple of years prior with his partner, Yamileth Pasmiño. Together, they operated a small restaurant. He was known for his passion for surfing large waves, a discipline within the sport he pursued during his free time. His partner, Pasmiño, paid tribute to him on social media, describing him as someone who "went to surf the eternal wave" and would forever accompany her travels from "another plane."