The surf world is mourning following news of a fatal surf injury involving Mikala Jones.
Jones was surfing in the Mentawai Islands of Indonesia, when he suffered an injury that allegedly severed his femoral artery and led to a fatal loss of blood.
He was 44 years old.
Specifics about what exactly happened are still scarce. However, after news broke of the tragedy, the surf world began pouring in their remembrances of Jones, who was well-known for his tube-riding acumen at home in Hawaii and beyond.
Hawaii-based surf photographer, Brian Bielmann, posted this tribute to his friend:
“I put on the Brian Wilson/Beach Boys album Smile, I made a cup of coffee and sat down to make this really sad sad post. Our friend Mikala Jones passed away yesterday in The Mentawais while surfing the waves he loved.. I’m so sorry and send prayers to his family . He was 44 which is far too young. He was a wonderful person an incredible artist, his Go pro photos were mind blowing. …. We’re gonna miss him so much. I’ve been sitting her all morning trying to grasp this reality . We all will pass on but it’s so shocking when it’s so unexpected like this. What he packed into his 44 years was astounding. He lived a great life was loved by many and will never be forgotten. He left this world a beautiful soul can any of us ask to live a better life than that .Aloha Mikala We love you buddy.”
Three-time surfing World Champ, Mick Fanning, posted:
“So shattered to hear the news. Mikala you were one of a kind. Funny, mellow, an explorer, a pioneer but most of all loving husband and father.Going to miss your sense of humour and classic one liners. Love how you always kept it real but were a true ambassador of aloha.To Emma and the girls sending so much love. Mikala loved you more than anything and would always be showing us pictures and videos with the proudest smile on his face.Grateful to have known you the past 25 years and honoured to go exploring with you in that time.You will be missed. #MJalldayMay you forever get barrelled whilst guiding your family from above. Love you brother
And on Mikala’s Instagram, a who’s who of surf world greats expressed their sadness:
“Legend. 💔” – Kelly Slater
“Love you MJ” – surf photog Zak Noyle
“RIP Brother ❤️❤️❤️” – Michel Bourez
“RIP MY BROTHER 💔” – pro surfer turned EDM DJ, Paul Fisher
Our deepest condolences go out to Mikala’s family and friends.
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