A courageous Florida sailor stationed in Hawaii tragically lost his life after rescuing two children from the treacherous waters of Waiapua‘a Bay.
Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, aged 47, hailed from Florida and passed away on Saturday. This information was disclosed in a news release by the Kaua‘i Police Department.
Diaz, who served at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands, sprang into action when he noticed two children struggling against the high surf. Without hesitation, he plunged into the water to save them, as detailed in the release.
Though the children reached the safety of the shore, police indicated that Diaz encountered difficulties amidst the powerful waves.
First responders from the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department eventually retrieved Diaz from the water and initiated emergency lifesaving procedures.
Personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department later pulled Diaz from the water and began lifesaving efforts.
He was taken to the Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Diaz was stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Louis Lea)
“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,” Capt. Robert Prince, commanding officer of the Pacific Missile Range Facility, wrote in a statement to Fox News Digital.
“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,” Prince continued.
The incident happened in Hawaii’s Waiapua‘a Bay. (iStock)
An autopsy is pending to determine the cause of death, but police noted foul play is not suspected.
“The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz during this difficult time,” officials wrote in a statement.
