Four individuals tragically lost their lives after being swept away by the sea during a rescue effort. The incident occurred on Monday, March 9, around 7pm in Algarrobo, Chile, when Patricia del Pilar “Pilar” Bello Labe, a lawyer and parliamentary adviser, was swept away by a large wave while walking along the coastline. Her partner, Felipe Hernández Bustos, attempted to save her, prompting others to enter the water to assist. Sadly, only Felipe survived, rescued by Navy personnel. One of the deceased has been identified as Benjamin Robert “Ben” Wood.
Ben, a 43-year-old originally from Connecticut, had been living in Chile for nearly 13 years and was well-known in the local culinary scene, co-founding El Honesto Mike burger chain. Through social media, he shared culinary insights, often featuring beer in his recipes. In a poignant Instagram post, Ben reflected on his career and past ventures.
Tragically, two other victims were identified as Ben’s father, Norman Ray Wood, and María José Duarte Ureta, who was Ben’s partner and head of sales at a local brewpub. María Jose’s daughter described her as a remarkable woman with a strong will and immense love to offer. Pilar and Felipe, who were visiting Algarrobo from Puerto Montt, were also caught in the tragic incident, despite a high-wave warning in effect over the weekend.
Authorities are currently investigating the matter, attributing the deaths of all four victims to drowning.
