8 Rescued After Being Swept into Current at Puʻu Kekaʻa “Black Rock”

Puʻu Kekaʻa “Black Rock”. Maui Now graphic.

By Maui Now Staff

Eight individuals were assisted to shore after being swept out by the current at Puʻu Kekaʻa or “Black Rock” in Kāʻanapali.

The incident was reported at 3:38 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19, 2014, when an elderly couple from Canada called for help while snorkeling at the site, fire officials said.

Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said a family of four swimming nearby with an inner tube, and another couple swam over to assist the snorkelers, but all eight found themselves stuck in the current and unable to swim to shore.

According to department reports, the current, which was running north, took them around the corner of Puʻu Kekaʻa and out of sight.

Fire officials say nearby local Stand Up Paddlers started bringing the individuals to shore while Ocean Safety rescue crews aboard a watercraft brought the remaining swimmers to shore.

Authorities say fire personal accounted for all and checked them for medical needs.

According to department reports, medics arrived on scene and assessed a 61-year-old woman from Canada, one of the original two that got in trouble. Authorities say she declined treatment or transport for further care.