A chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant passed away in an accident after being hit by a boulder during a hike in Hawaii with her boyfriend, according to her family.
Gianna Buzzetta, 26, was struck by falling debris on March 23, 2025, while visiting the Makaleha Falls waterfall in Kauai, Hawaii, with her boyfriend Connor Quinton, who was referred to as her “soon-to-be” fiancé.
Buzzetta, the executive pastry chef at Jeune et Jolie restaurant in Carlsbad, California, was realizing a personal dream by visiting the Hawaiian waterfall when the incident occurred.
“They heard a really loud noise. [Quinton] looked up but couldn’t figure out where the noise was coming from. Within a second, it happened,” her father, Sal Buzzetta, told 10News. “The rock dislodged from quite a ways up … then it landed on her.”
Quinton was able to move Buzzetta to safety from the water but could not find cell service in the remote area. According to family members, he ran nearly three miles to find assistance.
When first responders arrived, Buzzetta was unconscious and suffering from severe bleeding due to a head wound. The Kauai Fire Department arranged for an airlift to a hospital, where she died from her injuries on March 24.
Her parents managed to fly to Hawaii to be with her before she passed away.
“She had told her boyfriend, Connor, that day, he had fulfilled her dreams and it was the best day of her life,” said her mother, Caty Buzzetta.
The hike was particularly important, with family suggesting that Quinton might have intended to propose during their Hawaiian trip. An online fundraiser referred to Buzzetta as a “girlfriend/soon-to-be fiancé,” though it did not confirm any proposal plans for the vacation.
Buzzetta’s culinary career was on a significant upward path. As executive pastry chef at Jeune et Jolie, she contributed to the French restaurant’s achievement of Michelin stars for three consecutive years.
Her employer, John Resnick, described her as an essential team member, praising her dedication and creativity. Colleagues admired her both professionally and personally.
Buzzetta’s culinary journey included training at the Culinary Institute of America and working at notable restaurants like Spago and Patina before joining Jeune et Jolie, where she quickly became a vital part of the kitchen team.
In addition to her professional achievements, Buzzetta was recognized for her altruism and compassion. She frequently volunteered at animal rescue shelters, reflecting her commitment to community service.
Her sister, Kalie, initiated a fundraiser on Give Send Go to cover medical costs, emergency transport, funeral, and memorial arrangements. As of early April, the campaign had raised over $46,000.
The Southern California culinary community has shown support for Buzzetta’s family. Jeune et Jolie announced a special dinner service in her memory, with proceeds directed to her family during this challenging time.
Those familiar with Buzzetta described her as determined, humorous, and passionate about cooking and outdoor activities. Her untimely death has left a gap in the restaurant and the culinary world, which had recognized her talents.
Buzzetta is remembered by her family as a “precious daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, grand-daughter, girlfriend, friend, Christian, and gifted executive pastry chef,” leaving a legacy of culinary innovation and personal warmth that impacted many during her 26 years.
