Hilo, HI – A 51-year-old Colorado visitor, Greg Durocher of Castle Rock, has died following a possible drowning incident in Hilo on Monday afternoon, June 30, 2025. Hawai‘i Island police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Authorities were called to Waiolena Beach Park at approximately 12:28 p.m. after reports of a possible drowning. According to officers, Durocher had been taking part in scuba diving lessons with his family. He had been in the water for nearly 40 minutes before coming ashore, where he reportedly experienced difficulty breathing. Shortly after, Durocher became unresponsive.
Bystanders, including the dive master and Durocher’s family, immediately began administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Hawai‘i Fire Department medics arrived on the scene and continued treatment before transporting Durocher to Hilo Benioff Medical Center. He was pronounced dead a short time after being admitted.
Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest to determine the exact cause of death. At this time, investigators do not suspect foul play.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact South Hilo Patrol Officer Elieser Quinones at (808) 935-3311 or via email at elieser.quinones@hawaiicounty.gov.