HPD: Apparent Drowning Cause of Hilo Bay Death

A man found floating in Hilo Bay last Thursday died from asphyxia due to drowning.

The cause of death was determined by an autopsy conducted on Tuesday.

Hawai’i Police Department officials say the identity of the victim still has not been determined. Detectives are working towards an identity for family notification.

Just after 8 p.m. on Sept. 24, police responded to an unresponsive man floating face down about 15 feet from shore on the 100 block of Banyan Drive. Authorities were unable to revive the man and he was officially pronounced dead at 9:02 p.m. at the Hilo Medical Center.

HPD is seeking information on the case and asks anyone who knows anything regarding the incident to call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311. Individuals can also contact Detective Todd Pataray directly at 961-2382 or e-mail [email protected].

Those who would rather remain anonymous should call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.