(Video shows Bittencourt’s body being brought ashore)
By Contributing Reporter
SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL – Brazilian Model Caroline Bittencourt, 37, drowned in São Paulo after jumping into the sea during a raging storm to try to rescue her puppies — the second runway walker from Brazil’s largest city to die in a week.
Husband Jorge Sestini followed her into the water in a desperate rescue attempt, and he was in the wild waters for three hours before being saved.
The model’s body was finally found late Monday near Cigarras Beach, her father-in-law, Alfredo Sestini, confirmed to Globo.
“We are grateful for the support and affectionate messages we have received from Carol’s friends and fans,” her daughter, Isabelle Bittencourt, 17, wrote on Instagram. ”This energy drive fills our hearts with so much love.”
Bittencourt, who also worked as a TV presenter, made headlines after she was asked to leave Brazilian ex-footballer Ronaldo’s wedding to Daniella Cicarelli back in February 2005, according to The Sun.
Caroline’s agent Andreia Boneti said her husband was in a “state of shock,” according to The Sun report.
“Jorge tried to save her. He saw Carol drowning and wasn’t able to save her. It was a terrible moment for him,” the agent added.
Bittencourt’s death comes days after the death of Tales Soares, 26, who died after collapsing on the catwalk Saturday during São Paulo Fashion Week.