- calendar_today October 15, 2026
Police Investigate Apparent Drowning Off Captain Cook
An 18-year-old Kailua-Kona man, Joven Young, died Tuesday in what appears to be a drowning incident while diving near Captain Cook. Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
Diving Accident Reported at Pebble Beach
According to the Hawaii Police Department, Kona patrol officers responded to a call at 1 p.m. on Tuesday. The U.S. Coast Guard reported a missing diver at Pebble Beach, located at the bottom of Kaohe Road in Captain Cook. Upon arrival, officers met with an acquaintance of Young, who said the two had been diving together when Young went missing.
Search and Rescue Efforts Initiated
The Hawaii Fire Department began search and rescue operations shortly after officers arrived. At 3:46 p.m., rescue personnel located Young in the water. Emergency responders transported him to Kona Community Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead at 6:10 p.m.
Autopsy Ordered as Part of Police Investigation
As part of their investigation, police have initiated a coroner’s inquest and ordered an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death. Authorities have stated that foul play is not suspected at this time. The incident is currently being classified as an apparent drowning resulting from a diving accident.
Authorities Request Public Assistance
Police request that anyone with information regarding this incident contact Detective Bradley Llanes at (808) 326-4646, extension 3268, or via email at bradley.llanes@hawaiipolice.gov.
Additional Context
- Location: Pebble Beach, Captain Cook, Hawaii
- Agencies Involved: U.S. Coast Guard, Hawaii Fire Department, Hawaii Police Department
- Key Elements: Drowning, missing diver, search and rescue, autopsy ordered, police investigation
Source: westhawaiitoday.com.
