Police Investigating Possible Drowning in Hōnaunau

Hawaiʻi Island police are investigating a possible drowning that occurred Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Hōnaunau Bay in South Kona.

At 11:47 a.m. on Saturday, Kona patrol officers were dispatched to Hōnaunau Boat Ramp following a report of a swimmer in distress.

Police learned that 65-year-old Mindy Morris of Panama City, Florida, had been snorkeling in the bay with family members. As Morris returned to shore, she reportedly began experiencing difficulty breathing before losing consciousness.

Bystanders initiated life-saving measures until emergency responders arrived.

Morris was transported to Kona Community Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

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

Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact Officer Cody Sheddy of Kona Patrol at (808) 935-3311 or via email at cody.sheddy@hawaiipolice.gov.

The Hawaiʻi Police Department reminds residents and visitors to practice proper ocean safety precautions when participating in beach and water activities.