LIHUE, Hawaii — The Kauai Police Department has identified the 28-year-old female who died on Saturday at Wailua Falls as Nicole Chavez of Chile, according to a news release.
KPD personnel received a call regarding a lost hiker at approximately 3:50 p.m. Saturday. According to a preliminary report, Chavez’ travel partner had asked nearby hikers to assist with looking for her when she didn’t return to the Wailua Falls lookout after two hours. Hikers hiked to the bottom of the falls and found Chavez, who was unresponsive.
Kauai Fire Department personnel, along with firefighters from the Lihue fire station, Air 1, Rescue 3, and on-duty battalion chief, assisted in the recovery. Foul play is not suspected.
Officials remind the public that Wailua Falls is closed to hiking with “No hiking,” “No trespassing” and “Danger” signs in the area.
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii.