HONOLULU – The Coast Guard is assisting Kauai fire and police departments in the search for a missing swimmer last seen near Ninini Beach, on the north side of Nawiliwili Bay Tuesday.
Kauai fire and police departments began searching at approximately 8 p.m. Tuesday when the missing man's vehicle was found at the beach. Both shoreline and water searches have been conducted. Information from the reporting source indicated the swimmer likely entered the water as part of his normal swimming routine.
Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders received notification at approximately 9 p.m. and diverted two 47-foot motor life boats from Coast Guard Station Kauai, and Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point launched an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew to assist in the search through the night. The Coast Guard Cutter Ahi joined efforts at first light Wednesday.
According to the reporting source, the swimmer is a 56 year-old male of Japanese and Hawaiian descent, 5'8", weighing 170 pounds and wearing grey shorts.
Anyone able to provide information on the man’s whereabouts is asked to contact Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600.
For more information on the search contact the Kauai County Fire Department dispatch at (808) 241-1711.