In a heart-stopping turn of events on Hawaii’s Big Island, a tourist found himself in a perilous situation as he accidentally drove his rented Jeep off a cliff in the early morning darkness. Miraculously, he managed to navigate the treacherous waters and swim to the shore. The dramatic rescue unfolded when firefighters, police, and the US Coast Guard responded to the distress call at South Point in Naalehu around 3:45 am on Sunday.
The 27-year-old visitor from Canada, who suffered facial injuries and slight hypothermia, embarked on an approximately 100-yard swim to reach the safety of the shore. The rugged cliffs, estimated to be 50-60 feet high, posed a daunting challenge, and witnesses emphasized the dangers of the road leading to the cliffs.
Michael Moody, a local resident camping nearby for a spearfishing trip, recounted being awakened by the commotion from the rescue operation. He pointed out the abrupt transition from a major road to a short dirt road, followed by a steep incline leading to the cliff’s edge.
Despite the risks involved, a team of 16 responders undertook a demanding rescue mission, utilizing a combination of a rope and a helicopter due to the high surf conditions. Mayor Mitch Roth expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the considerable resources required and characterizing it as a potentially “careless act.”
The incident not only highlights the physical challenges of the terrain but also raises broader concerns about tourists navigating unfamiliar areas. While the location is known among locals as a fishing spot, Mayor Roth underscored that it’s not a typical destination for tourists, especially during the early morning hours.
In the end, the successful rescue operation served as a testament to the collaboration and bravery of the responders, ensuring the fortunate visitor’s safety in the face of an unexpected and perilous situation.
