Sarah Danser, a 34-year-old reality television star known for her multiple appearances on Discovery Channel’s “Naked and Afraid” franchise, died on October 22, 2024, following a car crash in Kahala, Hawaii.
The accident occurred on October 20, when a 59-year-old male driver lost control of the vehicle in which Danser was a passenger, colliding with a parked car. Danser, who was wearing her seatbelt, was hospitalized in critical condition. Despite efforts to save her, she died from her injuries two days later, on October 22.
The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained serious injuries. One person in the parked vehicle was also injured and a second refused treatment. Honolulu police confirmed speed was a factor in the collision, though drugs and alcohol were not involved.
Born on August 10, 1990, in Castle Rock, Colorado, Danser had built a life centered around the ocean and survival challenges. A skilled survivalist, Danser appeared on multiple seasons of “Naked and Afraid,” including Season 8 (2017), Season 11 (2020), and Seasons 4 (2018), 6 (2020), and 7 (2021) of “Naked and Afraid XL.” Her most recent television appearance was on the CW’s “Fight to Survive” in August 2023.
Melissa Lauren, a fellow participant on “Naked and Afraid,” paid tribute to Danser on Facebook, describing her as an exceptionally adventurous individual. Lauren highlighted Danser’s formidable survival skills, noting their shared experience on “Naked and Afraid XL” in South Africa. She also recognized Danser’s resilience as a breast cancer survivor who maintained an inspiring and positive outlook during her treatment. Lauren described Danser as someone who cherished the ocean, nature, and exploration, referring to her as a “modern-day pirate.”
A two-time breast cancer survivor, Danser had made Hawaii her home for the past 12 years, working as a boat captain and scuba diving instructor for Island Divers Hawaii. She lived part-time on a boat in Kewalo Basin, facilitating her love for travel and adventure.
Danser became an integral part of the local diving community during her time in Hawaii. Island Divers Hawaii, the scuba diving center where Danser was employed, shared condolences on its Facebook page on Thursday. The post, including a screenshot of Danser’s final Instagram post, expressed sadness over losing a valued friend and skilled captain. The center acknowledged Danser’s positive energy to those around her, noting that she will be deeply missed.
Danser’s family, including her father, Dan, and brother, Jake, were present at the hospital during her final hours. Island Divers Hawaii announced plans to create a memorial in her honor.