Kona fisherman dies from possible drowning after being pulled out to sea
Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a possible drowning on Tuesday at a beach in South Kona. Police have identified the victim as John Losalio, 53, of Kona.
At 2:44 p.m., officers responded to a report of a missing fisherman at Ho‘okena Beach Park. Upon arrival, officers learned that Losalio was shoreline fishing when his fishing line got stuck on something. He then jumped into the water to untangle his fishing line, however, got slammed against rocks after being pulled in near the shore by several large waves.
Losalio then disappeared from sight as he was pulled further out to sea. Personnel from the Hawai‘i Fire Department were able to find Losalio, who appeared lifeless. He was taken to the Kona Community Hospital and later pronounced dead at 4:25 p.m.
Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Police ask anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact Officer Margot Babauta of Kona Patrol at 808-326-4646, ext. 253, or e-mail Margot.Babauta@hawaiicounty.gov.