In the vibrant coastal settings of São Paulo, Brazil, a tragic jet ski accident has claimed the life of 27-year-old Juliana Carvalho Nasser, a gifted ballet dancer whose passion for dance was as profound as her spirit. This heartbreaking event has not only stirred the local community but has also reignited global conversations about the safety of water sports.
On March 10, 2024, Juliana was enjoying a leisurely day on the waters of Bertioga Channel near Guarujá with friends when disaster struck. A friend, lacking proper training in handling the powerful jet ski, decided to perform a series of high-speed stunts. Losing control, the friend executed a perilous high-speed U-turn just as a speedboat approached, resulting in a violent collision with Juliana’s jet ski. The impact was devastating—Juliana was critically injured and subsequently succumbed to her injuries at Hospital Santo Amaro despite swift medical efforts to save her.
The chaos of the accident scene was overwhelming, as described by witnesses who saw the jet ski “literally passing over” the one Juliana occupied. Another individual sustained a leg injury in the incident, underscoring the severity of the crash.
In late April 2024, the local Civil Police indicted Juliana’s friend, noting her reckless behavior and lack of experience, which led to this tragic accident. The Guarujá police chief remarked on the case, emphasizing the risks assumed by the friend when she decided to take control of the jet ski.
Juliana’s death is a profound loss to the dance community. Known for her vibrant energy and dedication, she was a prominent figure in local dance circles, with an academic background in Arts and an MBA in Strategic Business Management.
She taught at several dance schools and was celebrated for her contributions to dance festivals. Her commitment to her art and the joy she brought to her performances left an indelible mark on those who knew her.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with jet skiing, a sport that, while exhilarating, comes with significant risks. Across the globe, similar accidents have led to fatal outcomes.
On April 20th, off the coast of Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, a 28-year-old woman died after her jet ski crashed into a breakwater.
In August 2023 in Turkey, an 11-year-old girl lost her life when a jet ski hit the jet ski she was on at high speed.
These tragedies highlight the urgent need for stricter safety regulations and more robust training for jet skiers and other water sports enthusiasts. As the global community mourns the loss of lives like Juliana’s, enthusiasts and casual participants alike must recognize the risks involved and adhere to safety protocols to prevent such devastating accidents.
