MEDIA RELEASE

HawaiÊ»i Island police have initiated a missing person case in connection with a swimmer last seen in waters off Wawaloli Beach ‘OTEC Beach.’

In response an 11:49 a.m. call reporting a possible swimmer in distress, Kona Patrol Officers made contact with a a 26-year-old man, who reported that he had been swimming with an acquaintance, 26-year-old Richard Demby of Kailua-Kona, but couldn’t find him after he returned to shore.

Fire Department personnel are searching the shoreline by helicopter.

Demby is described as 5-foot-11, 175 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

Police ask anyone with information about his whereabouts to call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the islandwide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.