Police Investigating Possible Drowning in Captain Cook

Hawai’i Island police are investigating a possible drowning involving a 62-year-old male visitor that occurred on Saturday afternoon, February 22, 2025, in Captain Cook. The man has been identified as Gary Windle of Deer Park, Illinois.

At 12:29 p.m., Kona patrol officers responded to a report of a man struggling in the water near the shoreline at Manini Point Cove Park in Captain Cook. Witnesses reported that shortly after the man and his wife entered the ocean to go snorkeling, the man was seen floating face down near some rocks.

Bystanders pulled Windle onto shore and began CPR until Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel arrived and assumed live-saving measures. Windle was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1:33 p.m.

Police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. No foul play is suspected at this time.

Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this incident to contact Kona Patrol Officer Lawrence Matsumoto at (808) 326-4646, ext. 253, or by e-mail at Lawrence.Matsumoto@hawaiicounty.gov.