Missing Model Is Found Dead After She Jumped Into Sea to Rescue Her Dogs

Caroline Bittencourt in Sao Paulo on Aug. 1, 2016. Mauricio Santana/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

The body of a Brazilian model and TV presenter has been found after she jumped off a boat to rescue her dogs.

Carol Bittencourt, 37, was found dead on the coast of Sao Paulo, her agency confirmed on April 29, the day after she went missing when she jumped from her catamaran.

She was trying to rescue two dogs, described as puppies in some reports.

Her husband of just three months, Jorge Sestini, had dived into the water after her, reported Globo, but was himself rescued by lifeguards several hours later after he got into trouble in the stormy waters.

The sudden storm brought winds in excess of 75 mph, according to the news outlet. There are reports of other boats capsizing.

Personal friend and trainer Cau Saad told Leo Dias: “Carol jumped into the sea to save the two dogs that had fallen in the wind. There was only her, the husband, and the dogs on the boat. Jorge jumped back to find her, but they got lost because of the storm. He had to swim three hours to the coast to survive.”

Bittencourt has a 17-year-old daughter. She was intending to start a new business, and was due to graduate in nutrition later this year.

In addition to modeling, Bittencourt also worked as a TV presenter and reporter for various programs. In 2005, she made headlines when soccer star Ronaldo kicked her out of his wedding for reportedly crashing the nuptials.

Her body was found on Cigarras beach in Sao Sebastiao, reported Globo.

Sao Sebastio, Brazil. Screenshot/Google Maps

“It is with great regret that OXYgen Models confirms that the body of our model Carol Bittencourt was found lifeless on the coast of Sao Paulo,” wrote her modeling agency on Instagram. “We appreciate all the trust she has placed in us in these years of work and partnership. Our condolences to the friends and family of the victim. We are in mourning.”

Her 17-year-old daughter said in a message on social media that she was grateful for the affectionate messages and support from friends and fans.

“This energy drive fills our hearts with so much love,” she wrote.

Caroline Bittencourt in Sao Paulo on Aug. 1, 2016. Mauricio Santana/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

Bittencourt’s death follows that of another model in Sao Paulo at the weekend.

A 26 year-old male model died on April 27 after getting sick and falling on the catwalk during Sao Paulo’s Fashion Week, according to The Associated Press.

The male model, named as Tales Soares could be seen lying face down on the catwalk in photographs as paramedics attended to him. He was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.