The Hawai‘i County Police Department is investigating a drowning at Brown’s Beach in Hilo.

The victim has been identified as 52 year-old Robert Best of Hilo. Yesterday morning, Best was reportedly picking ‘opihi when he slipped and fell into the ocean and struggled in the rough waters before becoming unresponsive. Bystanders pulled him ashore and began CPR, but he was later pronounced dead at Hilo Benioff Medical Center.

Police have launched a coroner’s inquest and ordered an autopsy, though no foul play is suspected.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact police.