Coast Guard Joins Forces with HFD to Search for Missing Kayaker Off Hawaii Island

KONA (Hawaii News Now) — A kayaker has vanished near Keauhou on Sunday.

Jared Willeford, who is 42 years old, was last observed departing with his kayak near the location around 8 a.m., starting from the Keauhou boat launch site dressed in orange bib trousers.

The U.S. Coast Guard reported being informed by the Hawaii County Fire Department dispatch regarding an unoccupied yellow kayak approximately 400 yards out at sea around 10 a.m.

Willeford's family along with HFD verified that his truck and trailer remain at the boat ramp.

The Coast Guard reported that they are collaborating with the county’s fire department for the search operation. They have dispatched an HC-130 Hercules aircraft and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from the USCG Air Station at Barbers Point, along with the USCG Cutter Oliver Berry.

The county fire department mentioned that they will halt their search operations at sunset and restart them at daybreak. However, helicopter crews will keep searching throughout the night.

Those who have any details are encouraged to contact the Coast Guard’s Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600.