Police have identified the deceased male who was recovered Sept. 19 from the waters of Boiling Pots in Hilo as 42-year-old Stanley Walker II of Pensacola, Florida.
An autopsy was performed Tuesday on Walker, and a forensic pathologist determined that the cause of death was drowning. The investigation continues pending the results of the toxicology report.
On Sept. 17 at 1:33 p.m., South Hilo patrol officers responded to Boiling Pots regarding a report of a swimmer in distress.
Witnesses reported observing an unidentified man enter the water and immediately be pulled under the rapids. He did not resurface, and witnesses lost sight of him.
Hawaii Fire Department rescue personnel and the state DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement offers responded to the scene and began searching the area. An extensive search was conducted, but the victim was unable to be located.
On Sept. 19, at 2:10 p.m., fire department rescue personnel located and extricated the body of a deceased male who was located approximately 30-feet below the surface of one of the pools of Boiling Pots. The victim was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for pronouncement of death.
Police ask anyone who may have information regarding this incident to please call Detective Kimo Keli’ipa’akaua at (808) 961-2375, or email at kimo.keliipaakaua@hawaiicounty.gov.