A potential drowning at O-Tech Beach in Kailua-Kona on Sunday afternoon, January 5, 2025, has prompted an investigation by the Hawai‘i Police Department. The victim, described as a Caucasian man in his 30s, remains unidentified.

Reports indicate that Kona patrol officers were notified around 5:30 p.m. about a swimmer struggling in the water. Witnesses stated that three men were near the restroom area when one of them was swept into the ocean by powerful waves. Despite the efforts of his companions to guide him back, the man was unable to return to shore.

Rescue crews from the Hawai‘i Fire Department arrived and conducted a search. The unresponsive man was found and transported by boat to Honokōhau Harbor, and later taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was declared dead.

A coroner’s inquest is underway, with an autopsy planned to determine the cause of death.

The police urge anyone with information regarding this case to reach out to Kona Patrol Officer Sarha Reich at (808) 935-3311 or via email at Sarha.Reich@hawaiicounty.gov.