Hawaii Island police have identified a possible drowning victim in Kona as 35-year-old Garret Khralovch Stanislav, a resident of Mayfield, Ohio. The incident occurred on January 5, 2025, near the OTEC beach area in Kailua-Kona.
According to authorities, officers responded to a call around 5:30 PM reporting a swimmer in distress. Stanislav, who was at the beach with two companions, was swept into the water by strong waves and was unable to return to shore despite their guidance.
Emergency personnel from the Hawaii Fire Department located Stanislav unresponsive in the water. He was transported to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
An investigation is underway, with police awaiting autopsy results to confirm the cause of death. No foul play is suspected at this time.
Officials have reiterated the importance of exercising caution in ocean activities, particularly in areas prone to strong currents and waves. Visitors and residents are advised to stay within designated swimming zones and heed posted warnings.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Officer Sarha Reich of the Kona Patrol Division at (808) 935-3311 or via email at Sarha.Reich@hawaiicounty.gov.
