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DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
REIKO MATSUYAMA, MANAGING DIRECTOR
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News Release
For Immediate Release: May 20, 2026
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COUNTY OF KAUA'I
KAUA'I POLICE DEPARTMENT
RUDY TAI - CHIEF OF POLICE
(808) 241-1900
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California Visitor Dies Following Rescue on Kalalau Trail
LĪHU‘E – A California visitor died Tuesday afternoon following a rescue on the Kalalau Trail.
On May 19, 2026, at approximately 4 p.m., first responders were notified of an unconscious hiker on the Kalalau Trail near an exposed cliffside section commonly referred to as Crawler’s Ledge. Bystanders performed CPR until Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel aboard Air 1 arrived and extracted the victim from the trail. Medics continued lifesaving efforts and transported the individual to Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The victim has been identified as a 37-year-old man from California. An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death, but foul play is not suspected.
Responding agencies included the Kaua‘i Police Department, American Medical Response, and Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel from Hanalei Fire Station, Rescue 3, and Air 1.
The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Detectives are seeking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or assisted with CPR at the scene to contact Detective Hanson Hsu at (808) 241-1641.
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Media Contact:
If you are a member of the media with an inquiry for the Kaua‘i Police Department or its representatives, please email kpdpio@kauai.gov. Mahalo!
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