Police Investigating Possible Drowning in Hilo

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a possible drowning involving a 51-year-old male visitor that occurred Monday afternoon, June 30, 2025, in Hilo.

The man has been identified as Greg Durocher of Castle Rock, Colorado.

South Hilo patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel responded to Waiolena Beach Park at 12:28 p.m. Monday for a report of a possible drowning.

During the investigation, officers learned that Durocher had been participating in scuba diving lessons with his family. He was in the water for approximately 38 minutes before returning to shore, complaining of difficulty breathing. Shortly thereafter, Durocher became unresponsive.

The dive master and Durocher’s family initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on shore, where they were met by medics from the Hawai‘i Fire Department.

Medics continued treatment and transported Durocher to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after admittance.

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

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact South Hilo Patrol Officer Elieser Quinones at (808) 935-3311 or by email at elieser.quinones@hawaiicounty.gov.