Matthew Packard-Asai, a 19-year-old fisherman from Kapaa on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, disappeared on January 28, 2026, after being swept into dangerous ocean currents near Kahili Beach in Kilauea. The young man, described by loved ones as a pure-hearted individual who always tried to bring light to those around him, was last seen struggling against powerful waves while fishing with a companion near the northern point of the beach.

Witnesses reported seeing Matthew battling the rough seas. Friends on shore shouted urgent instructions, urging him to swim away from the hazardous rocks and toward safer waters. According to his hanai father, Kyle Doepke, Matthew was wearing shoes and carrying a backpack when he was pulled under. Doepke emphasized that Matthew remained conscious and actively swimming during the ordeal, not unconscious or incapacitated. The hanai father paid an emotional tribute, saying Matthew was “such a pure, truly hearted kid” who exemplified positivity and served as a role model, especially for children from difficult backgrounds. He noted that Matthew himself had overcome dysfunction and always held a light for others.

The second fisherman with Matthew managed to return safely to shore. Upon reaching land, he was treated by American Medical Response for a leg cut sustained during the incident. His safe return initially raised hope that Matthew might also make it back, but as hours turned into days, that hope faded.

Kauai Police Department officers responded to the scene around 12:15 p.m. on January 28 after receiving reports of the two men being swept out. What followed was an intensive, multi-agency search operation that continued nonstop for three days. Involved agencies included the Kauai Fire Department, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, ground search teams, helicopter crews conducting aerial surveys, and numerous community volunteers. A base camp was established on the beach to coordinate efforts, with searchers working around the clock in challenging conditions.

On January 31, the search took a tragic turn when human remains were located in the waters off Kahili Beach—the same area where Matthew was last seen. Kauai Police Department issued a statement confirming: “The remains are believed to be those of Packard-Asai; however, positive identification is pending DNA confirmation.” Authorities asked for privacy for the family as the identification process continues. The discovery effectively ended the active search phase, shifting focus to recovery and formal identification.

Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson expressed deep sorrow, saying: “Our thoughts are with Matthew and his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We are deeply grateful to all the agencies and volunteers who worked tirelessly in the search, and we extend our heartfelt support to Matthew’s family as they navigate the days ahead.” Kauai Chief of Police Elliott Kalani Ke echoed the gratitude, thanking partner agencies and community members who supported the effort.

The incident highlights the unpredictable and often deadly nature of Kauai’s north shore waters. Kahili Beach, while beautiful, is notorious for strong currents, sudden swells, and hazardous rock formations—conditions that can overwhelm even experienced ocean users in seconds. The fact that one fisherman escaped while the other was lost underscores how quickly the ocean can change from manageable to merciless.

Matthew’s hanai father, Kyle Doepke, painted a picture of a young man whose kindness stood out in any room. He described Matthew as someone who came from a challenging background yet chose to be a source of positivity and guidance for others, particularly kids facing similar struggles. The loss has left a deep void in the tight-knit Kauai community, where Matthew was known for his gentle spirit and willingness to help.

The discovery of human remains after three days of relentless searching has brought a painful closure to what began as a desperate hope for survival. While DNA results are still awaited to confirm identity, the prevailing belief among authorities is that the remains belong to Matthew Packard-Asai. No foul play is suspected; the tragedy is attributed entirely to the powerful, unpredictable ocean currents that claimed him.

This heartbreaking case serves as a somber reminder of the ocean’s power and the risks inherent in coastal activities, even for locals who know the waters well. Matthew’s story has touched many across Hawaii, with tributes pouring in online and in person, remembering a young life defined by light, compassion, and an unbreakable will to uplift those around him.

As the family prepares for final confirmation and the difficult days ahead, the Kauai community continues to hold them close, mourning a promising young man taken far too soon by the same ocean he loved and respected.