Visitor fatality in waters off Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach

Published on March 14, 2025

Mar. 20 Update: The individual has been identified as Lucas Shepard, a resident of California. Based on the preliminary autopsy findings and information gathered during the investigation, the cause of death is believed to have been drowning, and foul play is not suspected. The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

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MOLOA‘A  – A visitor died Friday afternoon after being pulled from waters at Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach, also known as Larsen's Beach, in Moloaʻa.

On Friday, Mar. 14, at approximately 12:30 p.m., first responders were dispatched to Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach for a swimmer in distress. According to a preliminary report, a male visitor had been snorkeling when friends were unable to locate him and called 911.  

The individual was observed to be unresponsive in the water and was brought to shore by personnel with the Kaua‘i Fire Department. Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared deceased at the scene.

The individual has been identified as a 43-year-old man from California.

An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death, but foul play is not suspected.

Kaʻakaʻaniu Beach is not staffed with lifeguards, and visitors are strongly advised to exercise caution if entering the water. Authorities recommend only swimming at beaches where lifeguards are present.

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