Hawai’i Island police are investigating a possible drowning off the Makako Bay shore in Kailua-Kona involving 68-year old Martha Kurica of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

On Monday evening, Kona Patrol Officers along with Hawai’i County Fire Department personnel, responded to the Honokohau Boat Harbor following a report of a possible drowning.

Through investigation, it was learned that Kurica was participating in a guided snorkeling tour in the area of Makako Bay when she was observed to be in distress. A snorkeling tour employee retrieved a flotation device to assist Kurica and discovered that she was unresponsive. She was brought aboard the tour vessel where CPR was administered.

Kurica was transported to the Honokohau Boat Harbor where medical treatment was continued by HFD medics. She was then taken to Kona Community Hospital for additional treatment, however life-saving measures were unsuccessful and she was pronounced dead later that evening.

Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation to determine the exact cause of death. No foul play is suspected.

Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this incident to contact Kona Patrol Officer Dylan Chaves at 808-935-3311 or via e-mail at Dylan.Chaves@HawaiiCounty.Gov .