Search Suspended for Alaska Tourist Who Disappeared in Waters Off Hawaii After Hiking with Boyfriend

Search Suspended for Alaska Tourist Who Disappeared in Waters Off Hawaii After Hiking with Boyfriend

The victim has been identified as Lauren M. Cameron, 32, of Anchorage

Lauren M. Cameron of Anchorage
Lauren M. Cameron. Photo: Kaua’i Police Department

Authorities have called off the search for an Alaska woman who was last seen in the waters off of Hawaii’s Hanakāpī‘ai Beach.

The announcement was made on the afternoon of Saturday, Dec. 14, by the County of Kauai, with the Kauai Police Department (KPD) identifying the missing woman as Lauren M. Cameron, 32, of Anchorage.

“Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lauren,” Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson said in a statement. “Thank you to our first responders and partners for their efforts with this search.”

Kauai Fire Department personnel responded about a missing swimmer at Hanakāpī‘ai Beach on Wednesday, Dec. 11, around 3:10 p.m. local time, authorities added, citing a preliminary report.

“According to reports, Cameron entered the water and was swept into the ocean by strong currents,” officials said.

“Our hearts go out to Lauren’s family and loved ones during this time,” said KPD Assistant Chief Kalani Ke, according to the county’s statement. “We appreciate everyone’s involvement with this multi-day search.”

Cameron was hiking on the Kalalau Trail with her boyfriend before the tragic incident unfolded, according to Fox affiliate KHON.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

After the hike, she went into the water to rinse off but got swept away, he added. Her boyfriend reportedly tried to save her by throwing a floatation device.

“My sister said that she was in a cave last night and like some people on jet skis checked up on her and then somebody on a boat checked up on her and then they couldn’t find her,” Jacob Neal, Cameron’s brother, told the outlet.

The county tells PEOPLE in a statement on Monday, Dec. 16, that there is no additional information at this time.

Those with information about Cameron’s whereabouts are encouraged to call KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers Kauai at 808-246-8300.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *