Lahaina diver is killed by boat
LAHAINA – A 60-year-old Lahaina man died after suffering critical injuries when he was accidentally struck by a 19-foot recreational ski boat Thursday morning in waters about 200 yards off Hanakaoo Beach, officials said.
Police identified the man as William W. Gonzales, who had been diving in the area.
The man was taken by ambulance to Maui Memorial Medical Center with life-threatening injuries to his legs, said Maui Fire Department spokesman Lee Mainaga.
Lahaina engine and ladder companies responded along with an ocean safety officer aboard a personal watercraft to the 11:32 a.m. alarm. The ocean safety officer used the personal watercraft to bring the injured man to shore at 11:37 a.m.
No dive flags were seen in the area where the man was hit, Mainaga said. The privately owned boat was towed to Mala Wharf, he added.
Maui Police Department spokesman Lt. Wayne Ibarra said that Gonzales died at the hospital.
Mahina Martin, race director with the Maui County Hawaiian Canoe Association, said Gonzales had been a canoe racing official for about 20 years, including at Maui Interscholastic League events.
“If you needed any kokua at a regatta or long-distance race, he would be there without hesitating,” she said. “Not only was he a tough competitor as a paddler, he loved to see our young paddlers experience the sport he loved and stay connected to the ocean and culture.
“Our paddling community has suffered a great loss today, and our prayers are with his family in this difficult time,” she said.
