Navy sailor dies after rescuing 2 children from high surf in Hawaii waters

A Florida sailor stationed in Hawaii died after heroically rescuing two children in Waiapua‘a Bay.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, 47, of Florida, died Saturday, according to a news release from the Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD).

Diaz, who was stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands, jumped into the water to rescue two children who were struggling in the high surf, according to the release. 

While the children made it back to shore safely, police said Diaz encountered trouble in the water.

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Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz died after rescuing children from Hawaii waters. (Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF))

Personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department later pulled Diaz from the water and began lifesaving efforts. 

He was taken to the Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Diaz was stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Barking Sands. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Louis Lea)

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“We are heartbroken by the passing of our shipmate and friend, MA1 First Class Jeffrey Diaz and extend our sincerest condolences to the family, friends and shipmates who are grieving,” Capt. Robert Prince, commanding officer of the Pacific Missile Range Facility, wrote in a statement to Fox News Digital. 

“We are grateful to the emergency responders, Sailors and their family members who provided immediate assistance, and we remain committed to supporting his family and those affected as we navigate this difficult time together,” Prince continued.

The incident happened in Hawaii’s Waiapua‘a Bay. (iStock)

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An autopsy is pending to determine the cause of death, but police noted foul play is not suspected.

“The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz during this difficult time,” officials wrote in a statement.