Apparent Drowning Reported at Kamilo Beach

A 59-year-old man was found dead on Kamilo Beach in Ka‘ū Thursday night.

Hawai‘i Fire Department received a report of a drowning at approximately 9:29 p.m. Crews from Pahala, Nā’ālehu and Hawai‘i Police Department responded to the remote shoreline of Kamilo Beach. First responders had to use an off-road capable vehicle to reach the victim.

When they arrived on scene, crews found the victim lying on his back on the beach and was “obvious DOA.” First responders described the sandy beachfront with tidal pools and exposed reef. Officials noted the surf was choppy with waves as high as two to three feet.

Officials learned the man had been night diving in a group when he lost contact with the others.

The 59-year-old was later found in a tidepool and brought to shore prior to HFD arrival.

The patient was assessed and the scene was turned over to HPD.