Travel influencer Emma Marie Laurent dies during dream vacation

French travel influencer Emma Marie Laurent, 24, dies as a pickup truck is swept away by a swollen river in Nicaragua

French travel influencer Emma Marie Laurent, 24, has died after a pickup truck carrying her and two other women was swept away by a swollen river in Nicaragua.

The incident occurred on October 9, 2026, as the group travelled through the country's northern region.

According to Nicaraguan newspaper La Prensa, the Toyota Hilux encountered difficulty while attempting to cross the Nahualapa River during heavy rain. The river, usually calm, had become dangerous due to strong currents.

Laurent, Swiss national Noë Lina Luscher, 20, and Nicaraguan hotel worker Karen Nahomi López Montano, 19, died in the incident. The vehicle's driver, Martin Gerardo Garcia Giron, survived after managing to escape, authorities told the publication.

Nicaragua's co-president Rosario Murillo addressed the tragedy, warning about the risks of crossing rivers during storms. She said the group had attempted the crossing at an unsafe time and noted that seemingly calm rivers could quickly become dangerous.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. It remains unclear whether the driver will face charges.

Laurent had built an online following of approximately 43,000 people by documenting her travels, van-life experiences and adventures across Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. She described herself on social media as living between two suitcases and shared content focused on travel and exploring the world.

About a week before her death, Laurent posted a reflection on social media while in Portugal. Writing in French, she expressed admiration for people who appreciate the world around them.

On September 26, she also shared a video of herself waking up inside a van, accompanied by a caption describing the appeal of choosing that lifestyle over a five-star hotel.

Her death has brought renewed attention to the risks of travelling through areas affected by heavy rainfall and rapidly changing river conditions.