Brazilian model and vocal gay activist, Tales Soares has died on the catwalk at a Sao Paulo parade.
Audience members had thought his fall was part of the act at the Ocksa fashion show. However, doctors believe the 26-year-old’s death may be the result of an undiagnosed birth defect.
His mother and sister had been watching the show via social media when Soares fell face-first on the runway. They then lost video transmission. Minutes later his modelling agency contacted them to say that Soares had been rushed to hospital.
They were also told that a member of the family should travel to Sao Paulo because Soares was suffering multiple heart attacks and would not survive.
Some speculators have indicated that drugs or anorexia may have been the cause of this tragic event. However, Tales’ mother, Heloisa pushed back against these comments.
“He did Crossfit, yoga, meditated, did not use drugs, had a super-healthy diet…”.
His sister, Alexandra also rebuked claims of any pre-existing health conditions.
“He never used drugs, always fought against prejudice, fought for LGTBS rights, he was very healthy, had been vegetarian for a year”.
Harrowing video footage and photographs have been released of Soares, appearing healthy and laughing with fellow models backstage just before the fall.
Show organisers have also been condemned for continuing the show after Tales died. In the closing act, rapper Rico Dalasam expressed his indignation: “No one should be here right now. The guy just died and you’re here as if life is not worth anything.”
