UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded at Garrapata State Beach on October 20, 2023, when a father and his 7-year-old daughter were swept into the ocean by a powerful wave. The body of the girl was recovered just hours ago, confirming the devastating loss for the family.
Around 1:20 p.m. Sunday, a diver located the girl’s body approximately 100 yards offshore and half a mile north of where she was last seen. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office reported that the girl was initially misidentified as being 5 years old, but family members later clarified her age.
Earlier, on Friday afternoon, the father, 39-year-old Yuji Hu from Calgary, Alberta, attempted to rescue his daughter after she was pulled into the ocean. Tragically, both were swept away by a large wave while the girl’s mother managed to return to shore. Hu was later rescued but was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
The heartbreaking event began around 1 p.m. Friday when a beach visitor and an off-duty officer noticed Hu and his daughter in distress. The officers immediately responded, pulling Hu from the water and administering CPR. While Hu was transported to the hospital, his wife was treated for mild hypothermia.
The multi-agency search operation involved the California State Parks, Cal Fire, and the U.S. Coast Guard, with efforts ongoing until Saturday night. Although the official search was suspended, personnel will remain in the area to conduct shoreline searches.
This incident raises urgent concerns about ocean safety at local beaches. Officials stress the importance of vigilance, especially during rough surf conditions. The Monterey County community is mourning the loss of Hu and his daughter, highlighting the profound impact of this tragedy on their family and friends.
As we continue to follow this developing story, the focus remains on the community’s response and the ongoing discussions around beach safety protocols. Stay tuned for further updates on this heartbreaking incident.
