Woman killed after speedboat runs her over near shore

Horror footage shows the moment a speedboat heading to shore runs over a female surfer, killing the 34-year-old. Warning: Distressing content

Warning: Distressing content

A female surfer has tragically died after a fishing boat collided into her as it approached the shore.

Horrifying footage shows Javiera Ortiz, a designer and photographer from Chile, bobbing on her surfboard near the shoreline at Rinconada Beach in Tauca, Cobquecura, before the speedboat runs her over.

As the boat makes it way onto the sand, people on the beach can then be seen rushing to the surfer’s aid in a panic.

The 34-year-old, who was reportedly due to marry in a fortnight, suffered fatal injuries to her head and arms.

“The provincial presidential delegate of Itata, Mario Cruces Nuñez, reported that emergency teams rushed to the site, but the woman couldn’t be saved,” Procesco Chile, an Instagram page dedicated to Chilean news, wrote in a post.

Javiera Ortiz, a designer and photographer from Chile, has tragically died after a fishing boat collided into her as it approached the shore. Picture: Instagram/inspiratemirando

According to the footage, it appeared the fisherman were unaware they had collided with Ms Ortiz as witnesses are seen informing the men they had just hit her.

She was rushed to hospital in Cobquecura in a pick-up that had been parked near the beach – but sadly died from her injuries.

Ms Ortiz was originally from Rancagua south of the Chilean capital Santiago but reportedly moved Cobquecura so she could be with her partner. They were due to get married in two weeks.

The boat was speeding towards the shore at Rinconada Beach in Tauca, Cobquecura, when it ran over the 34-year-old. Picture: Instagram/procesochile2024

Her tragic death has left her 63,600 Instagram followers in shock as they rush to her page to leave heartfelt messages.

“I’m still in shock at the news. I’ve only just found out you’re gone. Rest in peace beautiful and may light illuminate your path and give your family strength to bear this loss,” one person commented.

Ms Ortiz, who was also a popular knitter, suffered fatal injuries to her head and arms. She was reportedly due to get married at the end of this month. Picture: Instagram/inspiratemirando

“We’re going to miss you Javi. You were greatly loved,” another wrote, referring to her by her nickname.

Others commented on her great energy and thoughtfulness, saying it’s is what made her so special.

“Much strength to the whole family of Javi, a person of great heart and talent,” one person wrote.

Ms Ortiz, who was also known for her design work as a knitter, shared a recent clip boarding a Qantas flight. She explained how much she loves to travel and knit and her “technique to be able to carry my knitting on the plane and thus make my trip more entertaining”.

“Rest in peace Javi. I know from heaven you will continue to knit with as much love as you did every day, we will miss you,” one fan wrote.

Following the accident, police chief Pedro Parra Valdivia revealed that authorities arrested a fisherman in connection to the death of the influencer and surfer.

“The fishing vessel was being operated by a person aged 60 who didn’t see the female surfer as he approached the shoreline,” Mr Parra Valdivia said.

“She suffered serious injuries which resulted in her death.”

Two people including the man detained were in the boat at the time.

“The arrest took place the same day the victim died.”