Teen Brothers Swept Out to Sea; 1 Dies, the Other Still Missing

Hawai‘i police are investigating the possible drowning of a 16-year-old boy and his missing 14-year-old brother in waters off Shipman/Haena Beach in Puna.

On Thursday afternoon, Aug. 11, at 3:20 p.m. Puna Patrol officers along with Hawai’i Fire Department personnel responded to the Shipman/Haena Beach for a report of multiple swimmers in distress.

Responding personnel learned that several adults and the two boys were swimming when they were swept out by the current and high surf. The two adults and the 16-year-old were rescued from the water by the fire department’s helicopter. The 14-year-old has not yet been located.

Hawai’i Fire Department medics immediately began cardio-pulmonary resuscitation on the 16-year-old, as they began transporting him to the Hilo Medical Center. Life-saving measures continued at the hospital, however were unsuccessful. The victim was pronounced dead at 4:51 p.m.

Area I Criminal Investigation Section personnel responded to assist in this investigation.

Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation for the 16-year-old victim. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

A missing person case has been initiated for the 14-year-old boy who remains missing. Hawai’i Fire Department and the United States Coast Guard continued searching the area until nightfall. The Hawai’i Fire Department resumed their search this morning.