(Update) Police Identify Possible Drowning Victim in Lower Puna

As part of their ongoing investigation into the possible drowning of a man near in lower Puna on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, police have identified the deceased male as 65-year-old Arthur Michael Pacleb of Keaʻau.

At 8:14 a.m., Puna patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel responded to the makai side of Kalapana-Kapoho Beach Road, one-third of a mile Hilo-side of Opihikao Road, after receiving a report of a person, later identified as Pacleb, who had fallen into the ocean while picking opihi and was heard calling for help.

Witnesses reported hearing Pacleb yelling for assistance from the water and notified emergency responders. Rescue personnel located the individual in the water being carried by strong currents, brought him to shore, and initiated CPR. Pacleb was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 9:28 a.m.

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

Police ask anyone with information about this incident to contact Puna Patrol Officer Johnathen Figueroa at (808) 935-3311 or by email at Johnathen.figueroa@hawaiipolice.gov.