06.02.2026 16:12
Influencer Angel Montoya, who lived in Colombia, jumped into the Cauca River for a challenge aimed at going viral on social media. However, he was unable to withstand the strong current of the river and lost his life. After the incident, a video was shared on social media, and Montoya's lifeless body was found on the riverbank. Regional security official Francisco Tenorio warned people not to risk their lives for the sake of social media.
A challenge aimed at going viral on social media cost the life of a young man.
30-year-old influencer Angel Montoya, living in Colombia, jumped from a bridge into the Cauca River during a video recorded by a friend. Montoya was performing this dangerous jump for a live broadcast.
The footage shows Montoya appearing quite relaxed before the jump, laughing and joking with his friend. At that moment, neither he nor his friend realized that what was about to happen would turn into a tragedy.
However, the situation changed the moment he hit the water.
Montoya tried to fight against the very strong current in the river and began to swim towards the shore. But the current was so fierce that he was unable to succeed. During this time, his friend filming can be heard saying, "The current will sweep you away." However, the calmness in his tone indicates that the danger was still not fully understood.
Shortly after, Montoya completely disappeared in the raging waters.
After the incident, the video was shared on social media, and a call for help was made to find Montoya. Many viewers of the video pointed out how dangerous the river was. One user commented:
"The Cauca River is very dangerous. Even in the video, the whirlpools are clearly visible.
This is a river where many people have lost their lives over the years."
Unfortunately, the feared happened.
Authorities found Montoya's lifeless body on the riverbank. It was learned that workers near the river noticed the body and reported it to the authorities.
Speaking after the incident, regional security official Francisco Tenorio issued a stern warning to citizens:
"We want people not to risk their lives.
We are currently in the rainy season, and sudden floods are occurring in the area.
Life is more valuable than anything, and it should never be put at risk for the sake of social media."
A local resident named Macre Uzzy stated that he had jumped into the same river in the past but did so consciously and prepared:
"I also love extreme sports, but I always did my research before doing something crazy.
I was with someone who had jumped many times before, and he guided me.
We knew that swimming with the current in the river was necessary and that the shores were very dangerous."
Uzzy concluded his remarks with this warning:
"Whether it's extreme sports or another risky activity…
Work with professionals, prepare in advance, and remember this:
Even if all precautions are taken, there is always a risk."