Update: California man who died while snorkeling off Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach identified

Update at 1 a.m. March 23: The 43-year-old California man who died while snorkeling the afternoon of March 14 in waters off Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach, also known as Larsen’s Beach, in Moloaʻa was identified as Lucas Shepard.

Based on preliminary autopsy findings and information gathered during investigation, Shepard’s cause of death is thought to be drowning.

Foul play is not suspected.

Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to Shepard’s family and friends.

Original post at 10:28 a.m. March 15: A 43-year-old California man who was visiting Kauaʻi died Friday afternoon while snorkeling in waters off a beach on the northeast shore of the island.

An autopsy is pending to determine his exact cause of death. Foul play is not expected.

First responders were dispatched at about 12:30 p.m. Friday to Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach, also known as Larsen’s Beach, in Moloaʻa for a swimmer in distress.

Kauaʻi Police Department reports that the California man was said to be snorkeling, when friends were unable to locate him and called 9-1-1.

He was located unresponsive in the water and brought to shore by Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel. Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared dead at the scene.

Visitors are strongly advised to exercise caution if they choose to enter the water at Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach because it is not staffed with lifeguards.

Authorities recommend only swimming at beaches where lifeguards are present.