On Sunday morning, a man died in the waters of Marina del Rey.
The identity of the victim has yet to be released, however, it has been reported that he was 50 years old. The incident occurred around 8:40 a.m. in the 5500 block of South Ocean Front Walk, the stretch of coast parrel to the harbor and Ballona Creek.
Before tragedy struck, the man was seen entering the water for a dip.
Per a press release from the Los Angeles Fire Department:
“08:38AM; 5517 S Ocean Front Wk; Venice; LAFD resources assisted LACO Lifeguards and Fire in search operations for an approximately 50-year-old male who was seen entering the ocean channel at Marina Del Rey Harbor. The patient was located approximately 30 yards from his point of entry by LACO Lifeguards and taken to the Beaches and Harbor docks for advanced care by LAFD firefighter/paramedics. Unfortunately, the patient was beyond medical help and pronounced deceased onscene. Media questions are kindly referred to LACO Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.”
In video footage from the scene, a rescuer on a paddleboarder is first on the scene. Then, the lifeguard boats show up, followed by a vessel from the fire department.
Related: Teens ‘Buried Alive’ in Newport Beach Sand Hole (Video)
It appears, as conditions always are in this area, that the waters were calm on Sunday morning – leading to speculation surrounding the drowning incident. Per swell forecasting websites, the waves were minimal on Sunday at a mere two-to-three feet. Nonetheless, as this is a harbor frequented by boats, the waters here are still, flat, and manufactured.
The cause of death has yet to be announced.
As this is a developing story, the details of the tragedy are limited.
Rest in peace, and condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
Related: “Screaming for Their Lives”: Surfer, 72, Makes Heroic Rescue