Reality TV star Sarah Danser, 34, known for her participation in the “Naked and Afraid” series on the Discovery Channel, lost her life in a vehicular accident in Kahala, Hawaii on October 22, 2024.
The tragic incident happened on October 20, when the 59-year-old male driver of the vehicle carrying Danser lost control and struck a stationary car. Despite wearing her seatbelt and receiving immediate medical attention, Danser succumbed to her injuries two days later.
The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, suffered severe injuries in the crash. An occupant of the parked car was also hurt, while another declined medical assistance. According to the Honolulu police, the accident was speed-related, but did not involve drugs or alcohol.
Dancer, born on August 10, 1990, in Castle Rock, Colorado, had a passion for the ocean and survival challenges. She was a skilled survivalist and featured in several seasons of “Naked and Afraid” and its spinoff “Naked and Afraid XL.” Her last TV appearance was on the CW’s “Fight to Survive” in August 2023.
Fellow “Naked and Afraid” participant, Melissa Lauren, paid tribute to Danser on Facebook. Lauren spoke of Danser’s impressive survival skills and adventurous spirit. She also honored Danser’s resilience as a breast cancer survivor and her inspiring positivity during her struggle with the disease. Lauren referred to Danser as a “modern-day pirate,” indicating her love for the ocean, nature, and exploration.
Having survived breast cancer twice, Danser had been living in Hawaii for the past 12 years. She worked as a boat captain and scuba diving instructor for Island Divers Hawaii. She also resided part-time on a boat in Kewalo Basin, fulfilling her zeal for travel and adventure.
Danser was a beloved member of the local diving community in Hawaii. Island Divers Hawaii, where she was employed, expressed their condolences on their Facebook page, acknowledging her positive impact and expressing their deep sense of loss. The center plans to create a memorial in her honor.
In her final hours, Danser’s family, including her father, Dan, and brother, Jake, were at her bedside. Island Divers Hawaii announced plans to create a memorial in her honor.