On March 9th, Ben Wood, an American food influencer residing in Chile, tragically lost his life while attempting to save a drowning couple. The 43-year-old's heartbreaking tale took a turn for the worse, resulting in the loss of not only his own life but also that of his wife and father.
Wood's daughter, in a poignant tribute posted to his Instagram Stories on March 11th, remembered her father for his "tremendous love for their work, their life, and their passion." She wrote, "March 9th will forever be etched in our hearts as a day that reminds us of how you gave your life for others, as you did so many times before. I love you to the moon and back."
The beloved content creator, who amassed over 37,000 followers on Instagram for his videos on burgers and craft beer, was walking along the picturesque Algarrobo beach in Chile when a 26-year-old woman was swept into the ocean by a massive wave. According to local outlets O Globo and Diario El Día, the woman's partner, Wood, Wood's wife, and Wood's father all rushed into the water to save her but were all swept away by the powerful waves. Only the woman's partner survived after being rescued by the Chilean Navy with a naval helicopter.
Wood and his father passed away quickly, and though Wood's wife was pulled from the water alive, she later succumbed to her injuries in a hospital, as reported by O Globo, citing the Chilean Forensic Medical Service.
Born in Connecticut but having lived in Chile for over a decade, Wood was not only a popular social media personality but also the founder of Craftwork Chile, an online mail-order beer marketplace with various monthly subscriptions, and Lost and Found Liquids, an indie brewing project.
The news of his passing left a void in the hearts of his fans and inspired numerous tributes on his final posts. "So many memories, my dear neighbor," wrote one. "A huge hug Ben, and wherever you go, we go," penned another. "A hug and cheers to this legend!" expressed yet another.
Ben Wood's legacy lives on through his passion for food and craft beer, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved. His story serves as a reminder of the power of love and the sacrifices we make for those we care about.
