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Surfer Mikala Jones was known for his surfing photos and videos, which gave him a unique perspective on the sport.
CNN –
Hawaiian professional surfer Mikala Jones has died at the age of 44 as a result of a fatal accident while surfing on the Mentawai Islands in Indonesia on Sunday.
Jones was known in the surfing world for his mesmerizing videos of riding crashing waves, which offer a unique first-person look at the art of tube riding.
The exact details of his death are unclear.
Jones’ daughter Isabella wrote on Instagram that her “dad had a bad surfing accident and couldn’t make it,” adding that she was “so incredulous.”
Paying tribute to her father, she shared photos from her childhood with him and wrote: “Wish you were still here with us, you shouldn’t have left yet.” It’s too soon.”
After Jones’ death, many members of the surfing community took to social media to pay their respects.
Clothing company Reef, for which Jones was previously an ambassador, issued a statement in his memory, calling Jones “a contemporary surf POV content creator who was ahead of his time” and “arguably one of the most highly trained surfers around.” of the world”.
Surf photographer Brian Bielmann shared a photo of Jones on Instagram and wrote: “Our friend Mikala Jones died yesterday in the Mentawais while surfing the waves he loved. I am so sorry and sending prayers to his family.”
The Mentawai Islands in the Indonesian province of West Sumatra are known for having some of the best surf spots in the world.
Legendary pro surfer Kelly Slater, who has 11 world surfing titles to her credit, commented on Bielmann’s post: “Sobering moment. Maybe no one has lived this life better. Incredible guy and surfer.”
Surfing legend Mick Fanning, who has won three world titles, shared a photo of Jones and himself on Instagram and wrote: “So devastated to hear the news. Mikala, you were one of a kind.”
CNN has reached out to the Indonesian National Police, USA Surfing and the International Surfing Association for comment.