Remembering Tijana Radonjic: A Rising Star Lost in a Tragic Accident
Introduction
On May 28, 2025, the modeling world was shaken by the tragic death of 19-year-old Serbian model and influencer Tijana Radonjic. While filming a promotional parasailing video in Budva, Montenegro, Tijana fell approximately 150 feet into the Adriatic Sea after unbuckling her safety harness mid-air. The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, has raised questions about safety protocols and the pressures faced by young influencers.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Born in Novi Sad, Serbia, Tijana Radonjic was an aspiring fashion model who had recently begun gaining traction on social media for her lifestyle and fashion-focused content. Described by friends and family as brave and full of life, she was enjoying a summer break in Montenegro when the fatal accident occurred.
The Tragic Incident
Circumstances Leading to the Accident
While on holiday in Budva, Tijana was approached by a local parasailing company to film a promotional video. She agreed to participate and underwent the standard safety training before the flight. Witnesses reported that she appeared cheerful and calm prior to takeoff.
The Fall
During the parasailing session, Tijana reportedly experienced a panic attack mid-air. Disturbing footage shows her frantically unzipping her life jacket and unbuckling her safety harness before flipping upside down and falling into the sea. Eyewitnesses heard her scream "Put me down!" moments before the fall.
Aftermath
Emergency services quickly responded, but Tijana was pronounced dead at the scene. Her body was retrieved from the water and handed over to her family, who have rejected any suggestion of suicide. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, examining potential equipment malfunction, human error, or mental distress.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 28, 2025 | Tijana agrees to film a promotional parasailing video in Budva, Montenegro. |
| May 28, 2025 | During the flight, she unbuckles her harness mid-air and falls into the Adriatic Sea. |
| May 28, 2025 | Emergency services retrieve her body; she is pronounced dead at the scene. |
| June 3, 2025 | News outlets report on the incident; investigations are ongoing. |
Safety Concerns and Industry Implications
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Training and Preparation: The incident raises questions about the adequacy of safety training provided to participants in adventure sports.
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Mental Health Awareness: The possibility of a panic attack highlights the need for mental health considerations in high-adrenaline activities.
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Influencer Pressures: The demands placed on young influencers to participate in risky promotional activities warrant scrutiny.
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Regulatory Oversight: The tragedy underscores the importance of stringent safety regulations and oversight in the adventure tourism industry.
Conclusion
Tijana Radonjic's untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers associated with adventure sports and the pressures faced by young influencers. As investigations continue, it is imperative for industry stakeholders to re-evaluate safety protocols and provide comprehensive support to participants. Tijana's legacy will endure as a call to action for improved safety and mental health awareness in high-risk activities.
