Update: Two Photogs Presumed Dead In Tsunami Disaster

At least two professional photographers are missing and presumed dead in the Asian tsunami that killed more than 155,000 people.

New York-based interiors photographer Fernando Bengoechea and British fashion photographer Simon Atlee went missing Dec. 26 from Sri Lanka and Thailand, respectively. Family and friends held out hope for more than a week that the photographers would be found, but both have now stated the likelihood that their loved ones are among the dead.

Bengoechea, 39, and his traveling companion, Nate Berkus, an interior designer from Chicago, were vacationing in Sri Lanka when the giant waves struck. As the water carried them out to sea, Bengoechea and Berkus grabbed onto a telephone pole but were ripped away when a second wave hit.

Berkus scrambled to safety on a rooftop, but Bengoechea did not.

On January 6, Bengoechea's family released the following statement: "Based on all of the information we have gathered and the search teams extraordinary efforts we still have not heard any word of Fernando. Therefore, it is with great sadness, we are forced to presume Fernando died in the tsunami. We believe everything that could be done has been. This is a difficult thing to say, comprehend, and accept. We are sure there will always be a bit of hope in our hearts. We want to thank everyone for their prayers, thoughts, words, hugs and love. Fernando has so many dear friends and such an awesome support system who have been with us through this terrible tragedy. We will forever have a bond with each and every one of you. He will be greatly missed."

Bengoechea was born in Buenos Aires and raised in Brazil before moving to New York to study photography and cinematography. His work has appeared in several magazines, including Elle Decor, House & Garden, Town & Country, Harper's Bazaar, Vanity Fair and Flair.

Cary Leitzes, photography director of Harper's Bazaar, said Fernando "had a great spirit and infectious enthusiasm. His curiosity for people was limitless, and so was his work."

Bengoechea had shot for the magazine since 1995, working with Leitzes under three of Harper's Bazaar editors: Glenda Bailey, Kate Betts and Liz Tilberis.

Bengoechea also worked frequently for Town & Country, whose editor, Pamela Fiori, called him "one of our best photographers."

© Dave Hogan/Getty Images Atlee and Nemcova arrive at an AIDS benefit in Cannes, France, May 20, 2004.

Atlee, 33, was vacationing at the Thai resort Khao Lak with his girlfriend, model Petra Nemcova, when he disappeared. Nemcova survived by clinging to the top of a palm tree for eight hours despite a broken pelvis and other internal injuries. Atlee has disappeared and has not been seen since.

Atlee and Nemcova began dating two years ago and often collaborated professionally. Atlee had recently photographed Nemcova for her 2005 calendar in the warm waters off the south of France. The couple was photographed together in May when they attended an AIDS fundraiser during the Cannes Film Festival.

A message on the Web site of Atlee's agent, PearceStonerAssociates, stated that the photographer is one of the people confirmed missing by the British Foreign Office. A book of condolences was made available at the agent's London office.

Beateworks, the agency that represents Bengoechea's stock photography, posted a statement on its Web site imploring supporters and well-wishers to donate to the official charities administering aid to the stricken areas.

That list includes the American Red Cross, AmeriCares, CARE USA, Direct Relief, Oxfam, Sarvodaya, Save the Children and UNICEF.

Links
Fernando Bengoechea's Web site
News Blog On Fernando Bengoechea & Nate Berkus
Simon Atlee's Portfolio