We always see models stumble and fall on the runway but shortly pull themselves up. Unfortunately, that was not the case for Tales Soares, a 26-year-old Brazilian model who collapsed on the runway during the Ocksa show at São Paulo Fashion Week (SPFW) on April 28.
According to Dazed, Soares’ death came as a shock as guests first thought him collapsing was part of the show until other models started assisting him. He was rushed to hospital where he was confirmed dead.
“We’re sorry for his loss and send our deepest condolences to Tales’ family.” Followers of the account were enraged that the day’s schedule continued after the tragic events. “I did not believe it when I heard that the parade continued after Tales died on the catwalk. They did not have a bit of respect,” read a statement released by SPFW.
Comunicado Oficial pic.twitter.com/Mo17z9HrCi
— SPFW (@SPFW) April 27, 2019 Those who were close to the model, including his girlfriend shared their heartfelt messages on social media.
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A post shared by R O S A(@fernandaa_rosa) on Apr 28, 2019 at 8:20pm PDT
The public also raised their concerns, bashing the organisers for continuing with the show even after the incident.
Dar continuidade ao evento com a morte de um modelo em plena passarela, é realmente dar atestado de que a moda dita regras desumanas. Nem tudo é dinheiro, o mais chocante foi a plateia sentada sem esboçar reação ou ajuda. Não era encenação, era a vida real bem a nossa frente.
— Betu Acar (@AcarBetu) April 28, 2019
Cancelava tudo, parava tudo, tem uma pessoa morta na passarela, tiram o corpo, e modelos após modelos passam pelo mesmo lugar que minutos antes tinha um corpo estirado, chega a ser macabro! Essa atitude só prova que são tratados apenas como cabides humanos. Quebrou? Troca.
— Anderson da Silva (@apenasAnderson) April 28, 2019