Overview

• Officials concluded the kitesurfer was struck by a whale near Bloubergstrand, lost consciousness, then drowned.
• Investigators cited three independent autopsies alongside physical evidence to reach the determination.
• Recovered items included ripped kite lines, a damaged board, an untriggered safety mechanism, and final camera material.
• Howes went missing on September 7, prompting a large search, and his body was recovered the next day by a motorboat crew.
• Authorities reported the impact force exceeded one ton, and tributes from the kitesurfing community highlighted his influence at age 38.