Life can change in an instant, and for Beloved American food influencer Ben Wood, a simple walk along Chile’s coast turned into a final act of courage. 43-year old Wood died on March 9 after attempting to rescue a couple struggling in the ocean along Chile’s coast. Wood, who built a loyal online following through his enthusiastic videos about burgers and craft beer, had been walking along the beach in Algarrobo when the tragic incident occurred.
Ben Wood’s Daughter Shares Emotional Tribute After Influencer’s Heroic Death
His daughter confirmed the devastating news of Wood’s death in a heartfelt tribute shared to Instagram Stories on March 11.
In the message, she remembered her father as a man guided by kindness, passion, and a deep instinct to help others, even in his final moments.
“March 9 will be for you and to remember how you gave your lives for others, as you did so many times before,” she wrote, as reported by People. “I love you to the moon and back.”
For the thousands who followed Wood online, he was more than a food creator. His videos reflected a genuine appreciation for life’s simple joys, including great food, good company, and moments shared with the people he loved.
Now, the man who spent years spreading joy through his content is being remembered for a final act of courage that captured the same generous spirit his audience had come to admire.
Ocean Rescue Attempt Turns Tragic in Chile
Local media reported that the tragedy began when a 26-year-old woman was pulled into the ocean by a powerful wave.
According to multiple local reports from Chile, including O Globo and Diario El Día, several people immediately rushed into the water to save her. Among those who entered the surf were the woman’s partner, Wood, Wood’s wife, and Wood’s father.
The rough conditions quickly became overwhelming as strong waves battered the group.
The Chilean Navy later rescued the woman’s partner with the help of a naval helicopter. He was the only person to survive the rescue attempt. Wood and his father died after being swept into the water.
Wood’s wife was pulled from the ocean alive but later died at a hospital, O Globo reported, citing the Chilean Forensic Medical Service.
Ben Wood Built a Following Through Food and Craft Beer
Wood was originally from Connecticut but had made his home in Chile, where he lived for more than 10 years.
During that time, he carved out a space online as a food creator known for his love of burgers and craft beer.
Through relaxed, engaging videos, he built a loyal community on Instagram, where more than 37,800 followers looked to him for recommendations, discoveries, and honest takes on food and drink.
His passion for craft beverages extended well beyond social media.
The Mirror UK reported that Wood founded Craftwork Chile, an online platform that connected beer lovers with curated craft selections through a monthly subscription service.
He also started Lost and Found Liquids, a small, independent brewing project that celebrated experimental batches and spotlighted emerging voices in the craft beer world.
Fans Share Tributes to Influencer After His Death
After news of Wood’s death began circulating online, friends and followers flooded the comment sections of his recent posts with messages of grief and remembrance.
Rest in peace, hero, your bravery will be remembered,” one follower wrote.
Another fan wrote: “You’re gone, to another dimension. I’m happy to have met you; it was really fun. You were the nicest guy! So nice you risked your life to save someone else’s life. What a hero! Rest in peace, Ben!”
Another person shared a simple tribute: “A hug and cheers to this legend!”
For many who followed his work, Wood was remembered not only for his passion for burgers and craft beer but also for the life he built in Chile and the welcoming community he created around those shared interests.
Terrible loss of a family. So sorry.