Caroline Bittencourt, a Brazilian model and television personality, tragically died over the weekend in Sao Paolo. According to TMZ, Bittencourt was on a catamaran with her husband Jorge Sestini and their two dogs. The catamaran got stuck in a storm with heavy winds that knocked the dogs into the water.
Immediately, Bittencourt attempted to rescue the dogs and her husband followed behind.
Unfortunately, Sestini was unable to find Bittencourt and her body was later found near the beach on Monday, April 29 nearly 15 miles from where she was last seen. It was unclear whether the dogs were rescued. Sestini had been rescued hours after jumping into the treacherous waters.
Bittencourt and Sestini had been married since January.
Bittencourt’s 17-year-old daughter, Isabelle confirmed Caroline’s death with an Instagram post.
“We are grateful for the support and affectionate messages we have received from Carol’s friends and fans,” Isabelle wrote. “This energy drive fills our hearts with so much love.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Bittencourt’s family and friends during this incredibly tragic and heartbreaking time.
Bittencourt becomes the second Brazilian model to die in the city in less than one week. Also over the weekend, 26-year-old Tales Soares died on the catwalk after collapsing face-first during Sao Paulo Fashion Week in a horrifying moment that was captured on camera.