Coast Guard, HFD Search For Missing Paddler Off Big Island

A paddler has gone missing off the coast of the Big Island.

The Coast Guard and Hawai´i County Fire Department reported they are searching for a missing paddler after his canoe was found adrift one mile off Honaunau Beach on Saturday, June 5.

At 10:35 a.m., Sector Honolulu watchstanders received a report from the Hawai´i County Fire Department stating a good Samaritan found a canoe adrift off shore.

It was discovered that the canoe belonged to the paddler who regularly takes it out nearby. His car was found at the beach with his phone inside.

Watchstanders issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast notice to mariners, launched Air Station Barbers Point HC-130 Hercules and MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrews and diverted the Coast Guard Cutter William Hart (WPC 1134) to conduct searches of the area.

Hawai´i County Fire Department also deployed ground crews, a helicopter crew, and a boat crew in response. Good Samaritans aboard recreational vessels are also assisting with the search.

The 66-year-old paddler is described as 5-feet, 8-inches tall, weighing 155 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white, long sleeve rash guard and black board shorts. Waterway users in the area are asked to keep a sharp lookout for signs of distress and anyone with information is asked to contact the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu command center at 808-842-2600.

The weather on scene is seas less than one foot with light and variable winds.