The snorkeler who drowned at Larsen’s Beach has been identified as Lucas Shepard, a Fire Marshal from California.
The 43-year-old El Dorado County Fire Protection District division chief tragically passed away on Friday afternoon, March 14th, 2025, after a snorkeling incident at Larsen’s Beach (also known as Ka’aka’aniu Beach), in Moloaa, Kauai.
According to authorities, Shepard had been snorkeling with friends when he was reported missing. His friends were unable to locate him and called 911 for help. Kauai Fire Department personnel responded swiftly, bringing Shepard to shore, but despite their efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Shepard, who had served the El Dorado County Fire Protection District in California for nearly 20 years, was on vacation with his family at the time of the incident. Shepard had joined the district in March 2006 as an apprentice firefighter and worked his way through the ranks. He was promoted to fire marshal with the rank of division chief in December 2024.
Shepard leaves behind a wife and three sons. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through both the fire service community, his church, and his personal circle of family and friends. Hillside Church Cameron Park shared the heartbreaking news on its Facebook page, stating Lucas “was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a faithful friend to so many. His kindness, servant’s heart, and unwavering love for Christ left an indelible mark on our church family.”
Shepard receives his Division Chief badge as the Fire Marshal in February 2025. (Source: El Dorado County Fire Protection District press release.)
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Shepard’s family. The El Dorado County Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 3556 initiated the campaign, which has raised more than $20,000 to help the family during this difficult time.
Larsen’s Beach is exposed to the open ocean.
The tragic death of Lucas Shepard highlights the inherent dangers of both the beach and snorkeling in the area. Known for its remote and rugged beauty, Larsen’s Beach has strong currents, unpredictable waves, and rocky shorelines that make it a hazardous spot, especially for those unfamiliar with the conditions. The death underscores how even an experienced firefighter can fall victim to the risks posed by the ocean. This incident serves as a stark reminder that despite the allure of Kauai’s picturesque beaches, the combination of natural hazards and water activities like snorkeling can be deadly if proper precautions are not taken. Our recommendation is to never go in the water at Larsen’s and to always swim or snorkel with a partner in case an emergency arises.
(Top photo: El Dorado County Fire Protection District)
