Search underway for missing kayaker off Oahu’s south shore

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Rescue teams are searching for a missing kayaker in waters from Ala Moana to Waikiki.
The Honolulu Fire Department said a group of kayakers left the Ala Wai Channel at about 4 p.m. Wednesday to paddle out to Diamond Head and back.
“They encountered a little bit of strong wind, so they turned around and headed back,” said HFD Capt. Dean Baldeviso, who added that the winds were strong enough to flip some of the single-person kayaks over.
“On their way back, they realized that they were missing a kayaker,” he said.
First responders were called at 6:28 p.m., according to HFD. The first crews arrived at 6:35 p.m. and begin a search of the shoreline in the area from the Ala Wai Boat Harbor through parts of Waikiki.
The fire department had 13 units with about 39 personnel involved in searching a large area.
“I know our search companies have run out to about three and a half miles offshore,” said Capt. Baldeviso. “We also do have assets from State Airports rescue and firefighting as well as the Coast Guard assisting in the search as well.”
Both of the fire department’s helicopters were involved in the search, along with several rescue boats. Magic Island was used as a landing and refueling zone for the helicopters.
The search was expected to continue overnight, said Baldeviso.
This is developing story. Check back for updates.
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