Kauai marks its first water-related fatality
KILAUEA — Last week, The El Dorado County Fire Protection District from Camino, California, identified 43-year-old Fire Marshal and Division Chief Lucas Shepard as the drowning victim at Larsen’s beach on March 14.
On Thursday, investigators with the Kauai Police Department (KPD) identified Lucas Shepard. They reported that no foul play was suspected in the case based on the information gathered during their investigation. Furthermore, the autopsy revealed his death was classified as a drowning.
On Friday, March 14, officials reported that at approximately 12:30 p.m., first responders were dispatched to Kaakaaniu Beach, also known as Larsen’s Beach, in Kilauea/ Moloaa for a swimmer reported to be distressed.
According to witnesses, Shepard was snorkeling with friends when they realized he was missing and called 911. Once on the scene, Kauai firefighters discovered Shepard unresponsive in the water and immediately brought him to shore. Despite their strong efforts to revive him, Shepard was declared dead at the beach.
His death marks Kauai’s first water-related fatality of 2025. During this difficult time, KPD extended their condolences to Shepards’ ohana and friends.
El Dorado Fire Chief Tim Cordero also extended his condolences to the Shepard family, friends, and colleagues during this time. He also thanked KFD for their assistance and stated:
“I would like to express our gratitude to the Kauai Fire Department and its members,” said Chief Cordero. All have been extremely gracious in assisting our District as we navigate these difficult times.
“The impact of this loss extends well beyond his family and our fire family. Chief Shepard was very involved in his church and coached multiple sports in which his children participated. We are all devasted by this sudden and unexpected loss,” he shared.
In a press release on Monday, March 17, the El Dorado County Fire Protection District stated that Fire Marshal — Division Chief Lucas Shepard was a dedicated firefighter and a 19-year El Dorado Fire Department veteran. He is remembered by his community, friends, and colleagues, along with his ohana. Services for Chief Shepard are currently pending.
It also noted that Shepard’s family is receiving support from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District, the El Dorado County Professional Firefighters Association, and many others. They appreciate all the support they have received.