Man Dies After Cliff Jump at Keauhou’s ‘End of the World’
A 26-year-old man from Kailua-Kona has died following a cliff-jumping incident in Keauhou. Mathen Jackson passed away Saturday afternoon after becoming distressed in the strong currents of Lekeleke Bay, a location widely known as the “End of the World.”
The Incident at Lekeleke Bay
According to witness reports, Jackson and a friend were eating when Jackson decided to jump off the cliff into the bay. Shortly after, he became distressed in the water. Kona patrol officers responded to reports of a swimmer in distress at approximately 5:13 p.m. Hawaii Police Department officials are currently investigating the incident as an apparent drowning.
Heroic Rescue Efforts
Multiple individuals attempted to save Jackson as he struggled to stay afloat. Ian Kowalczyk, a passerby and former Navy corpsman and firefighter, witnessed Jackson struggling about 50 yards from the cliff. Kowalczyk attempted to coach Jackson to float on his back before entering the water to perform a rescue.
Kowalczyk reported that even as he managed to tow Jackson toward the edge of the cliff, a wave separated them and swept the man back out into the chop. Jackson’s friend, identified as Jay, also jumped into the water to attempt a rescue while remaining on the phone with 911. Kowalczyk later expressed his heartbreak over the outcome, stating, “I tried as hard as I could, and I’m sorry I couldn’t save him,” in a plea for others to prioritize safety reported by Hawaii News Now.
Emergency Response and Medical Outcome
A nearby tour boat responded to the distress call and brought Jackson on board. First responders on the vessel initiated CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) before transporting him to the Keauhou Pier. From there, Hawaii Fire Department (HFD) personnel took over life-saving measures and transported Jackson by ambulance to Kona Community Hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced dead at 6:36 p.m.
Official Investigation
The Hawaii Police Department has initiated a coroner’s inquest and ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected at this time. Police are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Kona Patrol Acting Sergeant Reuben Pukahi at (808) 326-4646, ext. 253.
- Victim: Mathen Jackson, 26, of Kailua-Kona.
- Location: Lekeleke Bay (“End of the World”), Keauhou.
- Cause: Apparent drowning after jumping off a cliff into strong currents.
- Response: Rescue attempts by a passerby and a friend, followed by aid from a tour boat and HFD.
- Status: Investigation ongoing; no foul play suspected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly did the incident occur?
The incident took place at Lekeleke Bay in Keauhou, which is commonly referred to as the “End of the World.”
Was there any foul play involved?
No. Police have stated that no foul play is suspected at this time.
Who can be contacted with more information?
Anyone with information should contact Kona Patrol Acting Sergeant Reuben Pukahi at (808) 326-4646, ext. 253.