A 78-year-old visitor was pulled from the waters of Hanauma Bay on June 7 and later died at the hospital, according to authorities, turning a day at one of Oahu's most famous snorkeling spots into a fatal emergency.
Lifeguards and paramedics carried out resuscitation efforts onshore before transporting the man to an emergency room, where hospital staff pronounced him dead.
According to KITV, the Honolulu Medical Examiner identified the victim as 78-year-old Chi Mai of Marrero, Louisiana. The office ruled the manner of death accidental, with drowning listed as the cause. Police told KITV they do not suspect foul play.
Rescue Effort On The Sand
Honolulu Ocean Safety lifeguards pulled Mai to shore, where crews from Honolulu Emergency Medical Services took over care and performed advanced life-saving measures before the transport to the hospital.
Per the Honolulu Emergency Services Department, lifeguards typically initiate CPR and other immediate interventions during ocean rescues, while EMS personnel provide advanced life support once they arrive on scene.
Ongoing Safety Concerns At Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay, a heavily visited marine preserve, has seen other serious snorkeling incidents this year. In a separate April case, a snorkeler was pulled from the water unresponsive and later died, as reported by Hawaii News Now.
The preserve draws thousands of visitors and is staffed by trained lifeguards who conduct safety briefings and respond to emergencies in the water and along the shoreline.
Park officials are reminding visitors to follow lifeguard instructions, watch the required orientation video before entering, and review the preserve's rules and reservation procedures on the City & County of Honolulu website. Authorities have not released many additional details as they continue to review the incident.
