The athletic community is mourning a tragic death.
Jackson James “JJ” RiceUS-born kitefoiler who competed professionally for Tonga has died in a diving accident off the coast of Tonga, his father Darren Rice confirmed on local network Matangi Tonga Online. I was 18 years old.
JJ was freediving from a boat on June 15 when he died of a suspected shallow water blackout, his father told the outlet. His body was found on the seabed below the ship by other divers and attempts to revive him failed.
Born in the United States, JJ grew up in Ha'apai, an island group in Tonga where his father and mother Nina Rice owner of the Matafonua Island Lodge. As a Tongan citizen, JJ has over the years represented the country in kite jumping at international events and was hoping to make his Olympic debut representing Tonga at the 2024 Paris Games.
After his passing, JJ's sister Lily rice shared a few words about his brother on social media.
