UPDATE: In a heartbreaking development, the body of a 7-year-old girl, who was swept out to sea at Garrapata State Beach, was recovered on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a diver located the girl’s body approximately 100 yards offshore around 1:20 p.m., half a mile north of where she was last seen.
Earlier reports mistakenly identified her age as 5 years old; family members have clarified she was actually 7. The tragic incident unfolded when her father, Yuji Hu, 39, of Calgary, Alberta, attempted to rescue her from a powerful wave that pulled them into the ocean.
The events began Friday afternoon, October 13, when beachgoers spotted the family in distress. Witnesses reported that Hu was trying to save his daughter, who had been swept away by a large wave. The girl’s mother, who attempted to reach them, was also briefly caught in the water but managed to return to shore safely. A 2-year-old child present at the scene was unharmed.
An off-duty California State Parks officer responded to the scene, rescuing Hu from the water and initiating CPR. Both parents were rushed to a local hospital, where Yuji Hu was tragically pronounced dead. His wife is currently in stable condition, suffering from mild hypothermia.
Authorities have confirmed that a large-scale search operation was initiated immediately, involving the Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, California State Parks, Cal Fire, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Despite their efforts, the search for the girl was suspended Saturday night, with the California State Parks committing to maintain personnel for ongoing shoreline searches.
This devastating incident underscores the dangers of ocean currents and the critical need for caution near water. The community mourns the loss of Hu and his daughter, with many expressing their condolences and support for the family.
As authorities continue to investigate, they urge beachgoers to remain vigilant and heed safety warnings when visiting coastal areas.
Stay tuned for more updates on this tragic story as it develops.
