Fisherman Swept Out to Sea in Point Reyes National Seashore Identified
A rogue wave at Point Reyes National Seashore claimed the life of a 73-year-old Hercules resident identified as Richard Norio Sumi, according to the Marin County Coroner’s Office.
The tragedy unfolded last week when a witness reported a harrowing sight: Sumi being swept away by a rogue wave from Point Reyes’ South Beach around 9 am on Friday.
A swift and coordinated emergency response ensued, with multiple agencies coming to Sumi’s aid. Responders from the National Park Service, U.S. Coast Guard, California Highway Patrol, Marin County Sheriff’s Office, Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, and Sonoma County Fire Department all joined forces in an attempt to rescue him.
Despite their valiant efforts, Sumi was found motionless approximately 40 minutes after being swept into the water. He was promptly airlifted back to the shore, where he was tragically pronounced dead.
The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation by both the National Park Service and the Marin County Sheriff’s Office.
