Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a possible drowning that took place in the waters off Ha’ena/Shipman Beach.

Yesterday afternoon, Puna Patrol officers along with Hawai’i County Fire Department personnel responded to the beach following a report of a swimmer in distress. Numerous bystanders and family members attempted to rescue the victim, who was positively identified as 66-year-old David Berg of Pahoa, by throwing out rescue buoys to him, however those attempts were unsuccessful.

Responding personnel learned that Berg was swimming when a large wave crashed on to him pushing him below the surface where he was swept approximately 100-yards out underwater, before resurfacing. He appeared lifeless and washed up on some rocks in the bay where he was airlifted by the fire department’s helicopter.

HFD medics immediately began CPR as they began transporting Berg to Hilo Medical Center. Life-saving measures continued at the hospital, however they were unsuccessful. Berg was pronounced dead later that day.

Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation for the victim and an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

Police ask anyone who may have information relative to this case, to call the police department’s non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311, or Detective Jeremy Kubojiri of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2378 or via email at  Jeremy.Kubojiri@hawaiicounty.gov.