Tragic Incident at Garrapata State Beach: Father Dies, Daughter Missing

On November 14, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at Garrapata State Beach in Big Sur, California, when 39-year-old Yuji Hu from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, died while attempting to rescue his 5-year-old daughter, who remains missing. The family was at the beach when a wave estimated to be between 15 and 20 feet high swept the girl into the ocean. Hu entered the water in an effort to save her, but both were pulled further out to sea. The child's mother also attempted to assist but managed to return to shore safely.

San Luis Obispo TribuneCALIFORNIA OCEAN RESCUE TRAGEDY – CALGARY FATHER DIES, 5-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER STILL MISSINGPatchNewsweekDaily Star

Following the incident, a large-scale search operation was initiated, involving multiple agencies, including the Monterey County Sheriff's Office, California State Parks, CAL FIRE, and the U.S. Coast Guard. The search began on Friday and resumed on Saturday morning after being temporarily suspended due to poor weather conditions. Despite extensive efforts, the search for the girl was suspended at sunset on Saturday, although California State Parks personnel continued shoreline searches on foot.

SFGate

Monterey County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Hu's identity and provided details about the incident. They noted that Hu had a hold of his daughter at one point before both were swept away. The sheriff's office also emphasized the hazardous conditions at Garrapata State Beach, which is known for its rip currents and steep drop-offs. A family spokesperson indicated that the family has requested privacy and does not intend to make a public statement.

SFGate

While the incident highlights the dangers of coastal activities, it also raises concerns about public safety measures at popular beaches. Experts point out that rip currents are the leading cause of drowning deaths at U.S. beaches, with over 100 fatalities annually, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The incident has prompted local authorities to urge beachgoers to remain vigilant during high surf conditions.

Newsweek

There were discrepancies regarding the clothing of the missing girl, with initial reports stating she was wearing a red shirt, later corrected to a white shirt. Additionally, while the search operations were extensive, the exact reasons for the suspension of large-scale efforts remain unclear, as officials continue to monitor the shoreline.

Patch

• "He jumped into the water to try to rescue his daughter, and in the process, mom also jumped into the water." — Andres Rosas, Monterey County Sheriff’s Commander

Newsweek

• "The child’s mother attempted to assist but was also swept into the water." — Monterey County Sheriff’s Office

SFGate

• "The family has requested privacy and does not wish to issue a statement." — Family spokesperson

Newsweek

As of now, the search for the missing girl continues in a limited capacity, with California State Parks personnel conducting foot searches along the shoreline. Local authorities have urged beach visitors to exercise caution and stay informed about weather conditions, especially during periods of high surf.

KGO - ABC7 News