Surfing community mourns the loss of Hawaii surfer Mikala Jones after a tragic accident in Indonesia. Known for his incredible photos and videos taken from inside waves, Jones passed away at the age of 44 following a surfing accident in the Mentawai Islands.
On Sunday morning, Jones was out in the ocean when his surfboard fin accidentally cut his femoral artery, a large blood vessel in the thigh. Despite efforts to save him, Jones succumbed to his injuries. His father, Dr. John Jones, described his son as a humble artist with an incredible talent for capturing awe-inspiring images.
Jones gained recognition for his Instagram account, showcasing stunning shots of waves curling around him while he crouched on his board. His unique perspective and ability to capture the beauty of the ocean drew praise and admiration from fellow surfers and fans.
The elder Jones, a dentist by profession and former photographer for surfing magazines, expressed his admiration for his son’s dedication to capturing images while riding waves. Unlike his father, who shot pictures from the beach or of others in the water, Mikala focused on showcasing himself and the wave in his photographs.
Born in Kailua, Hawaii, Mikala Jones started surfing at a young age and began competing as a child. He went on to win two national championships as an amateur before transitioning to sponsored surfing and traveling to various surf spots around the world, including Tahiti, Fiji, South Africa, and the Galapagos Islands.
Jones embraced new technology and pioneered the use of first-person images in his surf photography. He attached cameras to his board and used a GoPro to capture breathtaking shots. He even used software to create 360-degree views by stitching together images from multiple GoPro cameras.
While he was passionate about surfing, Jones was also aware of the risks involved. His father recounted a near-drowning experience where Mikala had an out-of-body experience, hearing his daughters calling out to him before returning to his body. Despite this, Jones continued to prioritize his love for surfing and capturing its beauty.
Dr. John Jones emphasized the importance of safety in the sport, urging surfers to wear protective gear and sand down fin edges to prevent accidents. Unfortunately, his son’s tragic passing serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with surfing.
Mikala Jones is survived by his wife, Emma Brereton, and their daughters Bella and Violet, who divide their time between Bali, Indonesia, and Hawaii. He is also survived by his father, an older sister, and two younger brothers. His mother, Violet Jones-Medusky, passed away in 2011.
The surfing community has expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of Mikala Jones, remembering him as a talented and passionate surfer whose artistic vision captured the essence of the sport. His unique perspective and contributions to surf photography will be greatly missed.