Police Investigating Possible Drowning in Keauhou

Hawai’i Island police are investigating a possible drowning involving a 26-year-old man that occurred on Saturday afternoon, April 11, 2026, in Keauhou. The man has been identified as Mathen Jackson of Kailua-Kona.

At 5:13 p.m., Kona patrol officers responded to a report of a swimmer in distress at Lekeleke Bay, commonly known as the End of the World. According to a witness, the victim and a friend were eating food when Jackson decided to jump off the cliff. He became distressed in the strong current and the friend called 911. The friend and a passerby entered the water to rescue Jackson. They brought Jackson to a nearby tour boat that had responded to the distress call where CPR was initiated and an AED was utilized. The boat transported Jackson to Keauhou Pier where Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel took over life-saving measures and transported Jackson to Kona Community Hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced deceased at 6:36 p.m.

Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. No foul play is suspected at this time.

Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this incident to contact Kona Patrol Acting Sergeant Reuben Pukahi at (808) 326-4646, ext. 253.