An American-Chilean beer influencer known as Benjamin “Ben” Robert Wood, aged 43, tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue a woman who was swept out to sea in Algarrobo, Chile. The woman, identified as 26-year-old lawyer Patricia del Pilar Bello Labe, was overwhelmed by a strong wave that dragged her into the ocean. Despite efforts from both Wood and the woman’s partner, Felipe Hernández Bustos, only Bustos was rescued by Navy personnel via a naval helicopter.
Regrettably, Patricia could not be saved, and the three individuals involved in the rescue attempt also perished. The other victims were disclosed as Wood’s father, Norman Ray Wood, aged 77, and María José Duarte Ureta, aged 47, who was Ben’s partner. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident.
Born in Connecticut, Benjamin “Ben” Robert Wood had been a resident of Chile for nearly 13 years. He was recognized as a prominent figure in the food industry and was a co-founder of the burger chain El Honesto Mike. With a notable presence on social media, Wood shared culinary insights and recipes, amassing a following of 37,400 on Instagram. In one of his final posts, he reflected on his professional journey, mentioning his various ventures in the beer and gastronomy sector in Chile.
Wood’s followers expressed their condolences online, praising his heroic actions and entrepreneurial spirit. They offered words of comfort and remembrance for the lives lost during the tragic rescue attempt.