A 19-year-old Serbian model, Tijana Radonjic, tragically lost her life during a parasailing activity in Budva, Montenegro, on May 28, 2025. The incident occurred while she was filming a promotional video for a local parasailing company. Reports indicate that Radonjic suffered a panic attack mid-air, leading her to unbuckle her safety harness approximately 150 feet above the Adriatic Sea. Despite immediate rescue efforts, she was pronounced dead upon retrieval from the water.
Incident Overview
Radonjic was approached by a representative of the parasailing company while vacationing with her aunt. She agreed to participate in a promotional shoot, which involved parasailing over the Budva Riviera. Witnesses reported that she appeared calm and underwent standard safety training before the flight. However, during the ascent, she reportedly experienced a panic attack, leading her to unfasten her safety equipment. Eyewitnesses heard her scream, “Put me down!” before she fell into the sea.
Company and Family Responses
Mirko Krdzic, owner of the parasailing company, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that Radonjic showed no signs of distress prior to the flight. He confirmed that technical inspections of all equipment are underway, and the results of the autopsy are awaited.
Radonjic’s parents, Branka and Goran, shared a heartfelt message: “We will never come to terms with this, nor accept that you are gone. You will remain in our hearts forever. Rest in peace and may the angels watch over you. Now you are one of them.”
Investigation and Public Reaction
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy. While some speculate that the incident was a result of a panic attack, others question whether equipment malfunction or inadequate safety measures played a role. The incident has sparked discussions on social media regarding the safety protocols of adventure sports and the pressures faced by influencers during promotional activities.
Remembering Tijana Radonjic
Friends and family remember Radonjic as a vibrant and compassionate individual. Her aunt shared a poignant tribute, recalling moments they had planned to enjoy together during their vacation. Radonjic’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of those who knew her, prompting calls for increased awareness and safety in adventure tourism.
Tourism Safety Under Scrutiny
This tragic incident has raised serious concerns about adventure tourism safety standards in the Balkans and other popular travel destinations. While parasailing is generally considered a safe activity when properly managed, the emotional and psychological preparedness of participants is often overlooked. Experts are now calling for more thorough mental health screening and briefings, especially for promotional participants who may feel pressured to perform for the camera. The tourism board of Montenegro has issued a statement expressing condolences to Radonjic’s family and emphasizing their commitment to reviewing current safety protocols. Discussions are also underway regarding whether regulations should be updated to mandate an additional safety tether or mental health checklist before flights.
Conclusion
As Montenegro continues to build its reputation as a prime tourist destination, this tragedy serves as a sobering reminder that thrill-seeking experiences must be balanced with comprehensive safety measures to prevent similar heartbreaks in the future.
