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U.S. Coast Guard Leads Extensive Search for Missing Diver Off Kauai
HANALEI, KAUAI – An extensive search is underway off the northern coast of Kauai for Bryson Higashi, a 44-year-old diver reported missing in the waters near Hanalei. The U.S. Coast Guard is spearheading the effort, joined by multiple local agencies.
Higashi was last seen around 4:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Authorities were alerted to his disappearance Wednesday evening when the Kauai Fire Department notified the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu command center at 7:36 p.m. of a potential person in the water near Hanalei Bay.
Following the notification, Coast Guard watchstanders promptly issued an urgent marine information broadcast. A robust search operation was initiated, deploying various assets including a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Kauai, an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew, and an HC-130 Hercules airplane crew from Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point. Additionally, the Coast Guard Cutter William Hart (WPC 1134) was diverted to assist in the search.
Officials indicate that Higashi may have gone missing while freediving. A key detail in the ongoing investigation is the discovery of his truck near Hanalei Bay, which had been left unattended for an entire day. Higashi is described as being 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds.
Supporting the Coast Guard in the search are personnel from the Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Police Department, and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
The Kauai Police Department has appealed to the public for assistance, stating, “Your assistance could make a significant difference.”
As of Thursday, on-scene weather conditions are challenging search efforts, with 15 mph winds, 2- to 4-foot seas, occasional showers, and reduced visibility.