Parasailing is a beloved recreational activity where thrill-seekers are towed behind a boat or land vehicle while harnessed to a parachute-like canopy, lifting them into the open air.
Most often experienced over water, the activity typically involves specially designed boats, with participants secured in body harnesses or seated gondolas for a safe and scenic flight.
Across Europe, parasailing has gained widespread popularity—and Montenegro is swiftly emerging as one of its most captivating destinations. Nestled along the stunning Adriatic coastline, Montenegro boasts dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming historic towns like Budva, Kotor Bay, and Tivat, making it an unforgettable backdrop for airborne adventure.
And Tijana Radonjic was one of the thrill-seekers, trying to prove herself to the world, herself, while having fun, just for the sake of it.
Then, she fell.
Tijana Radonjic was only 19 years old.
Young, vibrant, full of life, she was feeling the wind in her hair, and sun on her skin. But as she flew up and higher, panic allegedly kicked in.
The woman reportedly fell from a height of approximately 50 meters into the Adriatic Sea after unbuckling her safety harness mid-flight.
Footage of the harrowing moment has been circulating on social media, raking up views as it becomes viral, showing how Tijana was visibly distressed as she struggled with her safety gear just seconds before plummeting from the parasail.
Witness said that they heard her crying for "help" shortly before she fell.
Despite rapid response from emergency services, she was later confirmed dead.
A panic attack is an intense and sudden surge of fear or anxiety that often strikes without warning. It’s not just emotional distress—it’s a full-body response, as if the brain has slammed the emergency button.
The body floods with adrenaline. Breathing becomes rapid and shallow, the heart races, and a crushing sense of dread sets in. Even when there’s no real, immediate danger, the mind and body behave as if something life-threatening is unfolding.
To the person experiencing it, it feels like a fight-or-flight crisis. Many describe it as suffocating, like they're losing control—or even dying. Some feel detached from reality, as though the world has turned surreal. Others tremble, sweat, or freeze completely, overwhelmed by the sensation.
Panic attacks can happen to anyone. Sometimes they’re rooted in anxiety disorders or past trauma. Other times, they’re triggered by situational stress—being at great heights, in unfamiliar environments, or exposed to intense stimuli. Even a thrilling activity like parasailing can become a psychological trigger, especially for someone unprepared or mentally vulnerable. The combination of altitude, motion, and perceived helplessness can tip the mind into panic.
And because panic is not easily reasoned with, logic often becomes inaudible. The brain's fear center overwhelms rational thought.
In those moments, the mind focuses solely on one thing: escape. Sadly, this can lead to irrational—and even deadly—decisions. Like removing safety equipment mid-flight.
Tijana might have believed the true danger was being in the air, suspended and vulnerable, unaware that the real threat would come from trying to flee it. Her body, gripped by fear, reacted instinctively—trying to "fix" a situation that didn’t need fixing.
And so, in a cruel twist, her reaction to imagined danger became more dangerous than the situation itself.
Tijana was on holiday with her aunt when she accepted a free parasailing offer, reportedly promoted by a local beach representative.
Since she was an influencer herself, and that it's not uncommon for people like her to receive sponsorships, conflicting reports suggest the ride may have been part of a promotional video shoot for a nearby tourist agency.
While initial accounts attribute her actions to a severe panic attack, her grieving family has demanded a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
"We will never come to terms with this, nor accept that you are gone," the teen's parents, Branka and Goran, shared a heartbreaking farewell.
"You will remain in our hearts forever. Our bravest we love you endlessly and will be missed forever. Rest in peace and may the angels watch over you. Now you are one of them."
The owner of the parasailing company, Mirko Krdzic, paid his condolences, whilst adding that Tijana appeared fine before the activity.
"We are all in shock after the accident that happened. I do not know exactly what happened," he said.
"She did not show any fear of flying, she underwent training, after which the tragedy followed. Technical inspections of all the equipment are underway, and the results of the autopsy are awaited."
And even before setting off, she looked fine and alright.
"Before we set off, she waved to her friends on the beach and they waved back. Everything seemed fine. We don't know why she unbuckled her seat belt and harness and jumped out."
Authorities have confirmed that a formal investigation is underway to determine whether negligence, equipment failure, or other factors played a role in the fatal accident.
Though not yet as globally recognized as parasailing hubs in Western Europe, Montenegro is a rising favorite among adventure travelers. It offers a more affordable alternative with fewer restrictions—without sacrificing any of the natural beauty or breathtaking views.
But here, Tijana's story has shaken Montenegro’s adventure tourism scene, prompting urgent questions about safety protocols, mental preparedness, and accountability.
Tijana's death is not just a tragic footnote—it’s a painful reminder that even the most beautiful moments can turn fragile.
And in a sport defined by surrendering to the wind, there must always be safeguards for those who dare to fly.
