Surfer dies in waters off North Kohala

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A 63-year-old surfer apparently drowned Saturday in waters off Kohala Lighthouse at Kauhola Point.

A 63-year-old surfer apparently drowned Saturday in waters off Kohala Lighthouse at Kauhola Point.

Fire rescue personnel were sent to the popular North Kohala surf spot about 10:15 a.m. after surfers in the area found the man floating face down in the ocean, the Hawaii Fire Department reported. Despite the man not breathing or having a pulse, the surfers attempted CPR in the water as they brought him to shore.

On shore, rescue personnel took over resuscitation efforts until Chopper 1 and Chopper 2 personnel were able to lift the the surfer by long line up a cliff to awaiting medics, who transported him to Kohala Hospital.

Fire officials listed one fatality for the incident classified as a drowning. The cause was listed as an accident, according to a press release.

The man’s identity was not released Saturday evening.