Argentine surfer dies in Easter Island drowning accident

Gonzalo Balado, a 40-year-old Argentine surfer from Mar del Plata, died after drowning while surfing on Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile. The incident occurred around 4:30 PM in a high-risk area known for large waves and rocky reefs.

Witnesses reported that Balado suffered a physical collapse during a maneuver while surfing with friends. His companions managed to pull him from the water and transported him to the Hanga Roa Hospital. Despite medical teams performing resuscitation efforts for approximately 40 minutes, he could not be saved. Preliminary reports indicate the cause of death was asphyxiation by immersion.

Balado had lived on Rapa Nui for several years with his partner, Yamileth Pasmiño, where they operated a small restaurant. Local maritime authorities noted that there were no special weather alerts or adverse sea conditions at the time of the accident. The Chilean Navy and investigative police are conducting inquiries into the circumstances of the death.