A tragic incident occurred at Garrapata State Beach in Carmel, California, where a Canadian father, Yuji Hu, lost his life while trying to rescue his 5-year-old daughter from the ocean. On Friday, November 14, 2025, Hu, 39, was enjoying a family outing with his wife and two children when a powerful wave swept the little girl out to sea.
Details of the Incident
As the family spent time at the beach, a wave estimated between 15 to 20 feet engulfed Hu’s daughter, prompting him to jump in after her. His wife also entered the water in an attempt to help. Monterey County Sheriff’s Commander Andres Rosas reported that Hu managed to hold onto his daughter briefly before both were pulled further into the ocean.
Rescue Efforts
Beachgoers and an off-duty California State Parks officer pulled Hu from the water, administering life-saving techniques. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, he was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
Search for the Missing Daughter
A large-scale search operation commenced to locate Hu’s daughter, who was last seen wearing a white shirt and reportedly was not wearing a life jacket. This mission continued throughout Saturday but was later suspended at sunset. The search will resume along the shores of Garrapata State Beach.
Family’s Condition
- The girl’s mother was hospitalized overnight for treatment of hypothermia and is now in stable condition.
- Hu’s 2-year-old child was not harmed during this catastrophic event.
Broader Context and Impact of Weather Conditions
This tragic event unfolded as California faced severe weather, including an atmospheric river that caused catastrophic flash flooding across the state. Coastal areas encountered up to an inch of rain per hour, with Santa Barbara County recording over four inches on Friday alone. Evacuation orders were issued for vulnerable properties due to the potential for debris flows in areas affected by recent wildfires.
Community Response
The grieving family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Local officials reported that other incidents during the storm resulted in additional fatalities, highlighting the storm’s widespread impact. First responders remain vigilant as they continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance in affected areas.
