A British tourist who went missing while swimming in Bali has been found dead two miles offshore.
Harrison Edward Nada-Kantounas, 23, from east London, vanished last Wednesday while swimming with friends at Legian Beach, Kuta. He was caught in a powerful rip current and disappeared beneath the waves.
His body was recovered today (Friday) with injuries including a head wound and a broken nose.
In a statement, his family said: “It is with deepest sorrow that we confirm that the body of our beloved son, Harrison Nada-Kantounas, 23, was recovered today, approximately two miles offshore from the beach in Bali where he was last seen.
“Harrison had suffered injuries, including a head wound and a broken nose. We are heartbroken beyond words. Harrison was a bright, kind, and loving young man whose absence leaves an unimaginable void in the lives of his family and friends.”
His mother thanked those who had rallied to support the family during the search.
“My family and I want to thank every single person who has supported us during this horrific time. The kindness and generosity shown, from strangers on the beaches of Bali to people across the world who donated, has carried us through.
“Harrison was loved deeply, and we have felt that love reflected to us in the solidarity of so many.
“A very special thanks must go to Harrison’s friends, who searched tirelessly through the night, never resting, never giving up, and never wanting to stop. Their courage, love, and determination gave us hope when we needed it most, and we will forever be grateful.”
Friends and family described Harrison as a much-loved young man whose warmth and humour touched everyone around him.
“Harrison was one of the most gentle, kind, and funny young men you could ever meet. He lived his life with joy and openness, treasuring every moment and holding his family and friends as at the very centre of his world.
“His loyalty was unwavering, his warmth shone through in every interaction, and his generous soul touched all who crossed his path. He had a deep love of football, laughter came easily to him, and he had the rare gift of making others feel instantly at ease.
“Harrison’s life, though heartbreakingly short, was filled with love, light, and friendship. He is one who left us far too early, but whose spirit will never be forgotten.”
The family also highlighted the extraordinary efforts made by Harrison’s friends and supporters.
“We want to thank everyone who searched, donated, and shared his story. His friends never stopped walking the beaches all night and even funding a helicopter when no official air support came.
“The GoFundMe has now raised over £27,000 which has supported the search and will now help us bring Harrison home and give him the farewell he deserves. Any remaining funds will be donated to charity in his memory. Harrison was gentle, kind, funny and full of life. His warmth and loyalty touched everyone who knew him. He leaves us far too soon, but he will never be forgotten.”
Local officials confirmed that dangerous conditions had hampered rescue efforts, with winds reaching 30km/h and rough waves making it difficult to deploy equipment.
The head of the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office, Nyoman Sidakarya, said: “We urge you to be careful when engaging in outdoor activities, including beach tourism.
“We received a report at 18.40 that a foreigner had drowned from Mr Ipel, Balawiata Kuta, then five personnel were dispatched to the location. Our initial step is to coordinate with witnesses and other SAR elements. If he is not found tomorrow morning, we can determine our next action plan.”
The family also paid tribute to Marlon, a local lifeguard who risked his life to try to save Harrison.
“Marlon was the lifeguard who, in those first desperate minutes, came within a metre of reaching Harrison. It was also Marlon who later recovered Harrison’s body from the sea.
“He truly wanted to save a life, and he truly tried,” a friend who witnessed the effort said.
The family added: “We wish to acknowledge his courage, persistence, and humanity during this tragedy.”
