24-year-old visitor dies after being swept out to sea, possibly drowning in waters off South Point

Big Island police are investigating after a 24-year-old man visiting from the mainland died after being swept out to sea and possibly drowning Saturday morning in waters off South Point in Ka‘ū.

The man has been identified as Carson Philbin of Charlotte, N.C.

Hawai‘i Police Department officers with Ka‘ū Patrol responded just before 11:30 a.m. Saturday to reports of several swimmers in distress in the South Point area. Police determined three adult males, including Philbin, and one female jumped into the ocean at the “hoist” area and experienced difficulties because of rough ocean conditions.

With the assistance of local bystanders, three of the four swimmers were able to make it safely back to shore. However, a witness reported seeing Philbin about 75 yards off shore before going under.

Local fisherman and the Hawai‘i Fire Department conducted a search and fire personnel were able to locate Philbin’s body. He was transported to Hilo Medical Center and later pronounced dead.

An autopsy is being ordered to determine the exact cause of death and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who has any information about this incident is asked to contact Ka‘ū Patrol Officer Paul Wright III at 808-939-2520.