The Coast Guard suspended its search Friday for a 48-year-old fisherman who was last seen at Kaalualu Bay.
The Hawaii County Fire Department continued its efforts by air and land.
Shane Romena of Ocean View was reported missing Monday evening after he fell into the water while he was filling a cooler with ocean water for live bait. Romena was fishing with a young family member, who called 911 when he lost sight of him.
Fire Battalion Chief Michael Hayashida said standard operating procedure is to suspend ocean searches after three days. At the request of Romena’s family, however, firefighters continued the search Friday with a helicopter and three ground units.
“Our sincerest condolences go out to Romena’s family and friends during this difficult time,” Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer Brian Wear said in a statement Friday. “Suspending a case is never an easy thing to do and it’s something that is handled with the utmost care and consideration.”
The Coast Guard and Fire Department scoured a total of 1,615 square miles near the bay.
Brush fires raise suspicion on Kauai
Kauai police and fire officials are investigating a recent rash of suspicious brush fires.
“The proximity and frequency of these fires are a cause for concern,” fire Chief Robert Westerman said in a statement Friday. “While we are very fortunate that there were no injuries, we continue to remind the public that brush fires can escalate very quickly.”
Fire crews Tuesday evening found grass burning in a ravine at the northern end of the Ke Ala Hele Makalae multiuse path, Kauai County officials said by email.
Also Tuesday evening, crews from Kapaa found 400 square feet of grass and driftwood in flames at Anahola Beach.
On Monday firefighters put out a 30-acre brush fire below Pilipoli Road in Anahola. A large pile of abandoned waste, including junk vehicles and tires, smoldered through the night.
“These incidents are not being taken lightly,” Police Chief Darryl Perry said. “We strongly advise the public to be watchful of suspicious activity and to call police immediately with any leads before this threat increases.”
Anyone with information on these incidents is urged to contact police dispatch at 241-1711, Detective David Banquel at 241-1680, or CrimeStoppers at 246-3800.
