Kitesurfer's death was 'caused by a whale'

Coroners have confirmed that local kitesurfer Graham Howes was killed in a tragic incident involving a whale off Bloubergstrand on September 7. 

The 38-year-old’s death has been described as a freak accident following an extensive investigation that included three independent autopsies.

Authorities have concluded that Howes had kited out to a pod of whales when he was struck by one of the massive creatures with a force exceeding a ton. The impact rendered him unconscious instantly, leading to his drowning.

This conclusion was reached based on consistent evidence across multiple findings, including the snapped kite lines, a damaged board, an unreleased safety mechanism, final camera footage, and the recovery positions of all equipment and injuries sustained.

Howes, a well-known and respected figure in South Africa’s extreme sports community, was last seen alive kiteboarding offshore near Eden on the Bay in Bloubergstrand around 1 pm on Sunday, 7 September.

When he failed to return that evening, the NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew was activated just before 8pm.

A large-scale search operation was launched, with multiple agencies, including emergency services, private and commercial vessels, as well as air, land, and sea resources joining forces in an effort to locate him.

Several other rescue teams also joined in the search on the multi-day operation.

NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said at the time that their teams were working with search grids, taking into account weather, wind and sea currents.

This was being used to indicate the search area to extend out to sea from Eden on the Bay and out to sea in a north-west direction between Bloubergstrand and Robben Island and out to sea beyond Bokpunt and past the vicinity between Yzerfontein and Dassen Island.

According to his Facebook page, Howes was the CEO and founder of Dirty Habits, an apparel store and it was flooded with tributes as the news of his death was confirmed.

"Peace be with you. RIP," shared Natasja Reed.

"Fly high my friend," added Dave Kay.

"This is so sad. To his family and friends, may you find comfort in this sad time. Rest in peace young man," said Mel Schwikkard.

"A true legend. Very sad news indeed. You will be truly missed Graham," said David Behan.

"What a massive loss to our community of ocean lovers. Graham was a gem. Rest in paradise," shared Tasha Mentasti.