Search for missing diver suspended

KAILUA-KONA — The Hawaii Fire Department suspended its search Friday evening for a freediver who went missing in waters off North Kohala earlier this week.

West Hawaii Battalion Chief John Whitman said the decision was made after search and rescue teams were unsuccessful in their attempts to locate Guy Hermogila following surface searches north of Lapakahi State Historical Park, as well as other efforts that employed the use of Jet Skis and tank dives.

The Coast Guard discontinued its search for Hermogila, 44, on Thursday night following three days of looking. HFD typically suspends searches after three days as well, but decided to go out one more day Friday.

Family reported Hermogila missing Tuesday morning, telling authorities he was last seen about 11 p.m. Monday. The family was camping at “Mosquito Bay,” which is located makai of Akoni Pule Highway near mile marker 8.

The Coast Guard said Hermogila reportedly made his way to Black Point, situated south of Malae Point, to dive for lobsters. He never returned.

The search produced Hermogila’s dive float, found several yards offshore. Various equipment belonging to Hermogila also was found on the beach nearby, though some of his personal items remain missing.

Anyone with information about Hermogila’s whereabouts or the events surrounding his disappearance to contact the Sector Honolulu Command Center at 842-2600.