A swimmer died along California’s rugged Big Sur coastline after disappearing in the water and later being discovered on rocks during an urgent search, firefighters said.
The man was reported missing shortly after 1 p.m. at Sand Dollar Beach, Big Sur Fire Chief Matt Harris said.
Rescue teams spent roughly 20 minutes searching the area before finding him on the rocks.
Several agencies joined the response. The U.S. Coast Guard sent a helicopter to assist with the search along the coastline, according to KSBW.
Crews brought the man off the rocks and immediately began CPR. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead.
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Authorities have not yet determined what led to the man’s death, and the incident remains under investigation.
First responders are urging visitors to use extreme caution along the Central California coast, where strong swells, slick rocks and dramatic tidal changes can quickly turn hazardous.
“The ocean is unforgiving, you know. And right now, especially with the large tidal movements. And right now we have a pretty good-sized northwest swell. The rocks are very slippery. The swell is very powerful. And just to be careful and know you know your limitations,” Harris said.
Officials advised swimmers to review ocean conditions before entering the water and to understand the serious dangers associated with powerful surf.
