On Sunday morning, 52-year-old Robert Best of Hilo tragically died in a suspected drowning at Brown's Beach after slipping into the ocean while picking 'opihi and struggling against strong currents. Bystanders pulled him to shore and performed CPR, but he was later pronounced dead at Hilo Benioff Medical Center despite Hawaii Fire Department efforts, according to the Hawaiʻi Police Department.
Authorities said no foul play is suspected, and an autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, as reported by the Hawaiʻi Police Department. The incident reflects the dangers of rough sea conditions along the Hilo coastline.
South Hilo Patrol and the Hawaii Fire Department are investigating Best's death. Police are asking anyone with information to contact Officer Xylon Takata or Acting Lieutenant David Poohina at (808) 935-3311 or by email at [email protected] or [email protected], as stated by the Hawaiʻi Police Department.
