Yesterday, during São Paulo Fashion Week, brand Ocksa presented its latest collection. During the show, 26-year-old model Tales Soares – AKA Tales Cotta – stumbled and collapsed. Guests intially thought it was part of the show, before other models began trying to assist him. Soares was taken to hospital, but was later pronounced dead. 

Following the show, the model’s death was confirmed by SPFW, releasing a statement that said: “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,” one read. 

Elsewhere, Soares’ friend took to Instagram to also pay tribute to the late model. “Thank you for colouring my days with your laughs and our jokes... I love you forever,” it read. The model’s agency Base Management noted the late models “exemplary behaviour”, also addressing any rumours around his death. “Tales never presented or complained about health problems. He maintained a healthy diet (he was vegetarian), did not use illicit substances and was in full conditions to participate in the parade,” it said. 

Further details of the Soares’ passing will be understood following the autopsy.