Napa, CA – A man tragically lost his life on Sunday after being swept into the ocean off the Sonoma Coast, near Salt Point State Park, between Sea Ranch and Jenner. The incident occurred shortly before 10:45 a.m. at the Gerstle Cove campground, when the man and a companion were standing on rocks along the coast.
According to authorities, a large wave swept one of the men out to sea. Emergency responders, including the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office and local fire districts, rushed to the scene. The Sheriff’s Office helicopter, “Henry-1,” was deployed to assist in the rescue operation. The man, still in the water when first responders arrived, was recovered by the helicopter crew and transported to land.
Despite efforts to revive him, including the administration of CPR, the man was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m. Emergency personnel from the Timber Cove Fire Protection District, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, Cal Fire, and multiple local fire protection districts were all involved in the response.
At the time of the incident, the man’s identity was not immediately released, and authorities did not disclose further information. The cause of death remains under investigation.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the powerful waves along California’s coast, particularly in areas such as Salt Point State Park, which can be deceptive in their beauty. Visitors are urged to exercise caution when near the ocean, especially on rocky shorelines, where strong waves and sudden changes in the water can be life-threatening.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.