Erica Fox, a renowned local triathlete and beloved figure in the Monterey Bay swimming community, passed away on December 21, 2025, at the age of 55. She disappeared while swimming off Lovers Point in Pacific Grove during a weekly gathering of the 'Kelp Krawlers,' an open-water swim club she co-founded. Her body was recovered on December 27 near Davenport Beach, confirming witness reports of a shark encounter at the time of her disappearance.

A resident of Pebble Beach, Fox was celebrated for her endurance and passion for the ocean. She was a fixture at the prestigious Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, an event she completed for 20 consecutive years, earning her a reputation as a fierce and dedicated athlete. Friends and fellow swimmers described her as a mentor who found deep peace and spiritual renewal in the open water, often quoting her belief that swimming was 'a balm for body and mind.

Her connection to the ocean was profound and respectful; she frequently advocated for the understanding of marine life, acknowledging the risks of her sport with courage and pragmatism. In a tragic irony noted by friends, she had previously spoken about the beauty of sharks and the importance of respecting their habitat. Her husband, Jean-François Vanreusel, stated that she 'lived her life fully' and did not want to live in fear.

Fox's passing has deeply shaken the tight-knit California triathlon community. A memorial walk was held in her honor along the coastline she loved, where fellow athletes paid tribute to her adventurous spirit. She is survived by her husband, her father James Fox, and a community of swimmers who continue to be inspired by her legacy.