The surfer who died amid unusually large waves at Ocean Beach in San Francisco has been identified.
Sandro Ricardo Blitz, a 55-year-old local, is deeply missed by friends and the surfing community following a perilous day on the water.
“I can’t believe we talked just two days ago. You left us so suddenly. I hope you found peace riding that last wave,” a friend posted on Facebook, sharing a photo of him.
“Nii-san, see you on the other side!! Light up the room!!”
Another friend expressed disbelief, writing, “My surfing bro, I’m not ready for this.”
Someone else added, “I was really hoping to catch up with you soon. I didn’t want to see that truck come for you. Godspeed and good waves.”
“Love you forever, German Sandro Blitz,” another user shared.
The San Francisco Fire Department received a distress call on Thursday about a surfer in trouble near Lincoln. Upon their arrival, they noticed multiple lifeguards signaling for assistance.
The lifeguards quickly swam out and found Blitz face down in the water, “unconscious and not breathing.”
CPR and emergency measures were administered immediately, and he was brought to shore. Once on land, paramedics continued to work on him.
Tragically, after being transported to a local hospital in critical condition, he was pronounced dead.
Photos and videos from the rescue efforts were shared on social media by the department.
The National Park Service noted that “this incident is still under investigation,” but no additional details were provided.
The newspaper has contacted the SF Fire Department for further information.
