A dance instructor from Aruba died in a boating accident on Lake Como, Italy, on July 12, 2025. Julina de Lannoy, aged 33, suffered fatal injuries after being struck by a boat propeller during a collision while on a trip with friends.

The group had rented a boat for a leisurely outing when they collided with another vessel operated by a 44-year-old resident. The impact ejected de Lannoy into the water, where she suffered serious injuries from a boat propeller.

Emergency crews arrived at a nearby dock, attempting to resuscitate de Lannoy before handing her over to paramedics. She was taken to a local hospital, but medical staff could not save her. The other boat’s operator was also hospitalized and subjected to a breathalyzer test, remaining under observation as of July 13.

Authorities have impounded both boats and initiated an investigation to determine if a maneuvering error caused the collision. The inquiry aims to clarify how the incident occurred on the frequently visited Italian lake.

Concerns about increased boat traffic on Lake Como have been voiced by residents, who note that the current summer season is the busiest yet. The lake, situated in the Lombardy region, attracts approximately 1.4 million visitors annually, prompting safety concerns for boating activities.

De Lannoy resided in Brussels, Belgium, where she held a senior position at a department store. She began her career teaching dance in 2020, starting with twerk classes in Luxembourg and later expanding throughout Europe.

In 2022, she established Caribbean Twerk Brussels, making a significant impact in the European dance scene. Her classes and performances gained popularity in Belgium and Amsterdam, attracting a broad following due to her dynamic teaching approach.

Before moving to Europe, de Lannoy was involved with the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls in Aruba, a leadership organization for young women. Her participation in the organization highlighted her commitment to mentoring the youth in her community.

A spokesperson for the organization remembered de Lannoy’s influence, noting that “her joy was contagious, and her presence was a gift.” The spokesperson emphasized her commitment to values like love, service, and sisterhood.

De Lannoy is survived by her mother, Lisa, and her sister, Kiana. Friends present at the time of the accident reported that their boat was traveling slowly, countering suggestions of reckless operation.

The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns associated with recreational boating at popular tourist destinations, such as Lake Como. Increased boat traffic during peak summer months has created challenging conditions for operators.

The dance community across Europe is mourning the loss of de Lannoy, who was a respected instructor and performer. Her contributions to promoting Caribbean dance culture were recognized across several countries, marking her passing as a notable loss for the artistic community.