KFD Locate Missing Teenaged Hiker in Po‘ipū

First responders located a missing hiker in Po‘ipū on Sunday. No injuries were reported. 

According to a preliminary report, first responders received a call from Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch of a missing 16-year-old visitor on the Māhā‘ulepū Heritage Trail at approximately 2:35 p.m. on Sunday.

Crews with the Kōloa fire station, Rescue 3, Air 1, Ocean Safety Bureau South Roving Ski patrol, and the on-duty Battalion Chief responded to the incident.

At 3:10 p.m., firefighters initiated their search on foot on the trail while OSB personnel conducted their search along the coastline. At 3:15 p.m., Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 was activated to conduct an aerial search of the area. At 3:35 p.m., firefighters located the hiker on the trail. According to reports, the hiker became separated from his group, trekked to Māhā‘ulepū Beach, and later went back on the path to locate his family.

The scene was cleared at 5:25 p.m.

When planning outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, please let others know of your intended destination and return time, remain on marked trails, be prepared with rations of food and water in case of emergencies, and stay alert of changes in weather conditions.