KITEBOARDER DIES, TWO POLICE OFFICERS HURT WHILE SWIMMING TO HELP…

EPD PRESS RELEASE: On Saturday, October 12, 2024, at approximately 9:45am, the Eastham Police and Fire Departments responded to First Encounter Beach for a report of an unconscious individual with CPR in progress by bystanders.  On arrival and due to the location of the individual, Eastham Police Officers and Eastham Firefighters entered the water and swam to the victim, taking over CPR from the bystanders.  A paddleboard was utilized to return the victim to shore where he was then transported to Cape Cod Hospital by the Eastham Fire Department.  During the on-scene investigation, it was determined that the victim was kiteboarding at the time of suffering the medical emergency.  The incident was not directly witnessed and therefore it is unclear at this time if the victim suffered a kiteboarding accident or an unrelated medical emergency.  The victim was pronounced deceased at Cape Cod Hospital. As a result of the incident, two Eastham Police Officers were seen at Cape Cod Hospital with symptoms of saltwater inhalation and hypothermia.  One Eastham Police Officer was held overnight for observation.  Both are expected to make full recoveries.  Due to the tragic outcome of this incident and out of respect for the victim’s family and friends, the victim’s name will not be released at this time.  Please join us in keeping the victim’s family your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  The Orleans Fire Department assisted at the scene of the incident and the Massachusetts State Police are assisting with the ongoing investigation.  Release Prepared by: Chief Adam Bohannon Eastham Police Department abohannon@eastham-ma.gov