Opihi picker dies in Puna

An opihi picker apparently drowned Friday morning after being swept into the ocean by waves near the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse in lower Puna.

According to a written Fire Department statement, two bystanders assisted lifeguards in getting the body of the man, said to be in his 60s from the rocky shoreline, so the county helicopter could lift the body ashore.

The body was turned over to police, who are investigating.

The identity of the victim has not yet been released.