Tragic Accident Claims Life of Michelin-Starred Pastry Chef During Hawaiian Hike
Sarah Johnson
April 3, 2025
Brief
Gianna Buzzetta, a celebrated California pastry chef, tragically died after being struck by a boulder while hiking at Kauai’s Makaleha Falls. Her culinary legacy endures.
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, as 26-year-old Gianna Buzzetta, an acclaimed pastry chef from California, was struck and killed by a falling boulder during a hike to the scenic Makaleha Falls. The accident occurred on March 23 while she was exploring the area with her boyfriend, Connor Quinton, according to the Kauai Fire Department.
Gianna's father, Sal Buzzetta, recounted the devastating moments leading up to the incident, describing the sudden sound of a loud noise before the massive rock dislodged and hit his daughter. The remote location compounded the difficulty of the situation, as there was no cell service in the area. Quinton had to sprint to find help, but despite the efforts of first responders, Gianna succumbed to her injuries after being airlifted to a local hospital.
Gianna's mother, Caty Buzzetta, shared that the hike had been a lifelong dream of her daughter's, and she had expressed immense joy about finally experiencing it. "She told her boyfriend that day he had fulfilled her dreams, and it was the best day of her life," Caty revealed. The couple had planned to get engaged and start their life together before the tragic accident.
Professionally, Gianna was a rising star in the culinary world, serving as a pastry chef at Jeune et Jolie, a Michelin-starred French restaurant in Carlsbad, California. Her contributions to the restaurant earned it three Michelin stars, a testament to her creativity, talent, and hard work. Her boss, John Resnick, described her as humble, confident, and beloved by her team, adding that her loss was deeply felt by the entire staff.
In honor of Gianna's memory, Jeune et Jolie announced plans to raise funds for her family through a special dinner service. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the restaurant team expressed their grief and celebrated the joy and passion Gianna brought to their community. "Her sudden loss leaves all of us heartbroken and searching for ways to help her family," the post read.
Though her life was tragically cut short, Gianna's legacy as both a talented pastry chef and a cherished friend lives on through the lives she touched.
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Editor's Comments
This is a story that hits hard on multiple levels—a promising young talent, a picturesque dream turned nightmare, and the gut-wrenching randomness of life. Gianna seemed like the kind of person who could light up any room, and the fact that her last moments were spent fulfilling a dream adds a bittersweet note. It’s a reminder to cherish every moment, even the ones that feel ordinary.
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