Senseless !

Posting a picture of a paddleout tribute at Pipeline this morning, Slater said on his Instagram account said that it was a beautiful morning, but was horrified to realise the tribute was in remembrance of his friend who passed away in hospital after being shot three times yesterday.

"@ricardosantos90 was truly one of the great barrel riders of his short time (myself and a few others learned that the hard way against him at Teahupo'o a couple years back when he won the #AndyIronsAward in the event). He also won the #WaveOfTheWinter in 2012-2013 for a crazy barrel at #Pipeline and was a regular standout in any barreling or heavy conditions around the world. This was truly a senseless loss of life.

It unfortunately brings to light the number of murders yearly in Brasil, officially documented at over 50,000 with many thousands more going unreported. Lack of education, poverty, and drugs don't make for a good mix and make life challenging in this country, one of the most beautiful and scariest places I've been

"It unfortunately brings to light the number of murders yearly in Brasil, officially documented at over 50,000 with many thousands more going unreported. Lack of education, poverty, and drugs don't make for a good mix and make life challenging in this country, one of the most beautiful and scariest places I've been. Condolences to Ricardo's friends and family around the world. Our small community has lost another way too soon. #RIPRDS #WTF #HardToBelieve"

According to BBC News, Dos Santos, 24, was shot three times on Monday after he confronted the officer and another man.

"He underwent four operations before dying in hospital on Tuesday afternoon.

Goofyfooter Dos Santos was the consummate tube rider, known to be fearless in heavy surf, having conquered two of the scariest lefthand reefs you can get: Teahupo'o and Pipeline.

The BBC says that there are conflicting reports on why the off-duty officer attacked him.

"A witness reportedly said that Mr dos Santos had asked the men to leave after spotting them using drugs and playing loud music on the beach outside his home, near the southern city of Florianopolis. Other reports say he was shot while discussing a car they had parked at his property."

"The officer who shot the un-armed surfer says he did so in self-defence. He has been detained, but has not yet been charged."

Ricardo's Wave of the Winter
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