In Hawaii, a 47‑year‑old sailor from Florida lost his life after bravely pulling two kids to safety in Waiapua‘a Bay. Master‑at‑Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, who was serving at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands, dove into the rough surf to save the children.
While the youngsters made it back to shore unharmed, Diaz struggled in the water and was pulled out by members of the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services. He was rushed to Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Capt. Robert Prince, the commander of the facility, said: “We are heartbroken by the passing of our shipmate and friend, MA1 First Class Jeffrey Diaz and extend our sincerest condolences to the family, friends and shipmates who are grieving,” and added, “We are grateful to the emergency responders, Sailors and their family members who provided immediate assistance, and we remain committed to supporting his family and those affected as we navigate this difficult time together.”
An autopsy is still pending to identify the exact cause of death, but police have ruled out foul play. The Kaua‘i Police Department also released a statement extending its condolences to Diaz’s loved ones during this hard time.
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