Man dies after rescuing two children in high surf on Kauaʻi; another man dies while snorkeling

On Saturday, a 47-year-old service man stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, died after successfully saving two children who were struggling in the high surf in waters off Waiapuaʻa Bay in Kekaha, according to the Kauaʻi Police Deparment.

A day later, a 56-year-old visitor from California died while snorkeling at Lāwa‘i Beach.

On Saturday, first responders were dispatched to Waiapuaʻa Bay near Shenanigans Bar and Restaurant after reports of a swimmer in distress around 3 p.m. The man was identified as Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, of Florida.

Witnesses said Diaz entered the water to rescue two children, whose ages were not available. While the children made it back to shore safely, Diaz encountered trouble in the water.

Personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department recovered Diaz from the water and began lifesaving efforts. He was transported to the Kauaʻi Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waimea, where he was later pronounced dead.

His death marked the 11th ocean-related fatality on Kaua’i in 2025.

An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, but foul play is not suspected, according to officials.

On Sunday, a visitor was pulled from the waters off Lāwa‘i Beach on the island’s south shore and later died.

Law enforcement officials reported that first responders were dispatched to Lāwa‘i Beach around 4 p.m. after reports of an unresponsive snorkeler, who was later identified as 56-year-old Gavin Phillips from California.

Bystanders brought Phillips to shore and began performing CPR. Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel continued lifesaving efforts until medics transported him to the Wilcox Medical Center in Līhu’e, where he was later pronounced dead.

His passing marked the island’s 12th ocean-related fatality. His autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death; however, foul play is not suspected.

The incidents occurred during a high surf advisory by the National Weather Service for Kaua’i and Ni’ihau. Surf was expected to peak at 10 to 15 feet along the northern shorelines, and 8 to 12 feet along the west shorelines of both islands.

Following Sunday’s second death, the Ocean Safety Bureau urged visitors and residents to exercise caution when enjoying ocean activities and recommended that beachgoers swim at beaches with lifeguards and consult them about safe swimming areas.

Use the buddy system and avoid swimming alone. Observe ocean conditions for at least 15 minutes before entering the water, and always face the ocean and be aware of unexpected waves.

If caught in a rip current, remain calm, signal for help, and swim parallel to shore.