KALIHIWAI — The body of a missing Kapaa man was recovered on Friday afternoon from waters off Kalihiwai on the North Shore.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., rescuers located the body of Preston Ikehara-Yasay, 25, of Kapaa, in an area between Kalihiwai Bay and Kauapea Beach.
His body was recovered at approximately 2:30 p.m. following the second full day of a multi-agency search.
Ikehara-Yasay was last seen Wednesday afternoon walking with his fishing gear in an area known as Dragon’s Breath, near Kalihiwai and Kauapea Beach.
Hanalei firefighters and rescue specialists initiated a search shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday when witnesses reported seeing an unresponsive man in waters near Kauapea Beach.
Since Wednesday, collaborative efforts were conducted by the Kauai Fire Department, Ocean Safety Bureau, Kauai Police Department, state Department of Land and Natural Resources, U.S. Coast Guard and members of the public.
On Friday, Hanalei firefighters including the on-duty battalion chief, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, and lifeguards from the north roving unit along with the OSB prevention captain and lieutenant, continued their efforts on sea, land and air searches between Kapukaamoi Point and Kauapea Beach.
An autopsy is pending. Foul play is not suspected.
Volunteers with Life’s Bridges, a grief-counseling service, assisted Ikehara-Yasay’s family.
“Our hearts and deepest sympathy go out to the family and friends of Preston Ikehara-Yasay during this very difficult time,” stated Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. “Although we cannot ease their pain, we are thankful that our rescue team was able to bring Preston home and provide some level of closure for his family.”
