A California visitor died Tuesday, May 19, following a rescue on the Kalalau Trail.
At approximately 4 p.m., Kaua‘i first responders were notified of an unconscious hiker on the rugged trail near an exposed cliffside section commonly referred to as Crawler’s Ledge. Bystanders performed CPR on the 37-year-old 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.
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.
