UPDATE: A tragic incident at Garrapata State Beach has claimed the lives of a father and his 7-year-old daughter. The girl’s body was recovered Sunday afternoon, nearly 48 hours after she was swept out to sea by a powerful wave. Officials from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery at approximately 1:20 p.m., about 100 yards offshore and half a mile north of where she was last seen.
The father, Yuji Hu, aged 39 from Calgary, Alberta, tragically perished while attempting to save his daughter on Friday afternoon. Witnesses reported that both were taken by surprise by a large wave while near the water line. A visitor and an off-duty California State Parks officer spotted the family in distress around 1 p.m. and rushed to help.
The girl’s mother, who also attempted to reach them, was able to return to shore but was treated for mild hypothermia. Hu was pulled from the water by the off-duty officer, who immediately began performing CPR. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at a local hospital.
A multi-agency search effort, including personnel from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, California State Parks, Cal Fire, and the U.S. Coast Guard, began immediately following the incident. Unfortunately, the search for the girl was suspended Saturday night, but California State Parks will continue shoreline searches.
Earlier reports mistakenly stated the girl’s age as 5, which her family later clarified. The emotional impact of this incident is profound, resonating deeply with the local community and beyond.
Authorities urge beachgoers to exercise caution and stay aware of changing conditions, especially during high surf events. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is expected to release further information as the situation develops.
As this heartbreaking story unfolds, community members are coming together to support the family during this difficult time. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ocean’s unpredictable nature and the dangers it can pose.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
