Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a possible drowning that took place on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at a beach in South Kona. Police have identified the victim as John Losalio, 53, of Kona.
On Tuesday at 2:44 p.m., officers responded to a report of a missing fisherman at Hookena Beach Park. Upon arrival, officers learned that Losalio was shoreline fishing when his fishing line got stuck on something. He then jumped into the water to untangle his fishing line; however, got slammed against rocks after being pulled in near the shore by several large waves.
Losalio then disappeared from sight as he was pulled further out to sea. Personnel from the Hawai‘i Fire Department were able to locate Losalio, who appeared lifeless. He was then taken to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 4:25 p.m.
Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Police ask anyone who may have witnessed this incident to contact Officer Margot Babauta of Kona Patrol at (808) 326-4646, ext. 253, or e-mail Margot.Babauta@hawaiicounty.gov.