Search Ends for Missing Teen Swept Out by High Surf in Puna

The search for a 14-year-old boy that went missing in waters off Shipman/Haena Beach Park in Puna, ended Sunday evening, Aug. 14, and the teen remains missing.

The search, in the water and by air, began Thursday, Aug. 11, after the teen, his 16-year-old brother, their father and another adult were swept out by the current and high surf.

The 16-year-old and two adults were rescued from the water by the fire department’s helicopter, however, the elder sibling was pronounced dead later that day at Hilo Medical Center. The two adults were treated at the scene by medics.

The autopsy for the 16-year-old is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 16.

The Area I Criminal Investigation Section is continuing this investigation. A coroner’s inquest investigation has been initiated for the 16-year-old, and a missing person case remains open for the 14-year-old.