10 Oct 2018

Samoan porter drowns saving tourist

6:09 pm on 10 October 2018

A hotel worker at a beach resort in Samoa died while trying to rescue a tourist who had been swept out to sea by a rip.

Newsline Samoa reported that Talalelei Vou worked as a porter and driver for the Return to Paradise Resort at Lefaga on the southern coast of Upolu island.

He and his manager were the first on the scene and extended a lifebuoy that ultimately saved the guest's life.

The resort's general manager Mel To'ailoa said Mr Vou was picked up by a wave and was unable to be revived.

She said he had died doing what he loved - taking care of people.

there was a warning sign not to enter the part of the channel where the tourist got into trouble, Ms To'ailoa said.

A special farewell service for Mr Vou at the resort's chapel was attended by guests and staff members last Sunday.