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July 1 Update: The individual has been identified as Leonardo Mangamaw, a 26-year-old man from Kīlauea. The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
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26-Year-Old Man Dies While Diving at Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach
MOLOA‘A – A man died Sunday night after being pulled from waters at Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach, also known as Larsen's Beach, in Moloaʻa.
On Sunday, June 29, 2025, at approximately 9:20 p.m., first responders were dispatched to Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach after a man went missing while diving. According to a preliminary report, his companions saw him being swept away by the current and called 911.
Responding agencies actively searched the area, including personnel from the Kaua‘i Fire Department, the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Kaua‘i Police Department’s drone team.
At approximately 11:40 p.m., the individual was observed to be unresponsive in the water and was brought to shore by personnel with the U.S. Coast Guard. Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared deceased at the scene.
The individual has been identified as a 26-year-old man from Kīlauea.
An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death, but foul play is not suspected.
Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach is not staffed with lifeguards, and the public is strongly advised to exercise caution if entering the water. Authorities recommend only swimming at beaches where lifeguards are present.
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