"Upon arrival, first responders took over and continued administering lifesaving measures but were unable to revive Archuleta. Investigators said that there's no evidence of foul play, and an autopsy is pending. "The Maui Police Department extends our deepest condolences to Mr. Archuleta's family and friends," the department said in the news release. Makena Landing is generally considered safe for snorkeling, with one website deeming it one of the best spots for snorkeling on the island. The area is sometimes called "Turtle Town" for the abundance of sea turtles, but no lifeguards are on duty."
"However, between 2009 and 2018, 20 people drowned around Makena Landing, with 17 of them being tourists and 11 drowning while snorkeling, according to the Hawaii State Department of Health. Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death for tourists in Hawaii, and from 2020 to 2024, when adjusted for population, Maui had the highest rate of drownings compared to other Hawaiian islands. Many drownings are not caused by swallowing water but by overexertion, triggering hypoxia induced by rapid-onset pulmonary edema."
A 69-year-old Huntington Beach resident, Frank Archuleta Jr., became unconscious while snorkeling at Makena Landing and was pulled from the water by bystanders who attempted lifesaving measures. First responders continued lifesaving efforts but were unable to revive him; investigators found no evidence of foul play and an autopsy is pending. Makena Landing is known as a popular snorkeling spot called "Turtle Town" for abundant sea turtles, but no lifeguards are on duty. Between 2009 and 2018, 20 people drowned around Makena Landing, many of them tourists and several while snorkeling. Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death for tourists in Hawaii; from 2020 to 2024, Maui had the highest drowning rate when adjusted for population. Many drownings stem from overexertion and rapid-onset pulmonary edema rather than swallowing water. Officials advise swimming near lifeguards, checking surf conditions, avoiding unknown or large waves, and never swimming alone.
Read at SFGATE
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