Rescue teams searched for a missing five-year-old girl who was pulled into the water at Garrapata State Park on Friday, Nov. 16, 2025. Facebook
A Calgary family faces deep heartbreak after a tragic accident at a California beach claimed the life of a 39-year-old father who tried to rescue his young daughter. The incident unfolded Friday at Garrapata State Beach, a coastal area known for strong waves and sudden swells.
A Tragic Afternoon at the Shore
Police in Monterey County say the family visited the beach when a large wave surged suddenly toward the shoreline. The wave swept the five-year-old girl off her feet and pulled her into the ocean. Her father, identified as Yuji Hu, rushed into the water in an effort to reach her.
Waves in the area measured between 15 and 20 feet. The sheriff’s office says the strong surf pushed the child further out as Hu tried to grab her. He struggled against the force of the water and continued to move toward his daughter.
Family’s Desperate Effort
The girl’s mother attempted to join the rescue but the waves pulled her into the water as well. She managed to fight the current and return to shore. Officers say she received mild hypothermia and later went to hospital for treatment.
A Good Samaritan and an off-duty California State Parks officer worked together to pull Hu from the surf. They performed CPR on the beach while waiting for emergency crews. Paramedics transported Hu and the mother to a nearby hospital. Hu did not survive.
Search for the Missing Child
Search teams began looking for the missing girl immediately. Crews worked across the shoreline and surrounding waters until sunset. Boats, drones, and trained teams scanned the area for hours. Conditions remained rough, and the child did not turn up.
Authorities say a body matching her description has now been recovered. Officials will bring the remains to Salinas for formal identification. Before this discovery, search crews planned to continue smaller shoreline checks, but large-scale operations were no longer active due to safety concerns.
The family’s two-year-old child remained safe during the incident.
Community Shock and Family Grief
The sheriff’s office released a short statement acknowledging the family’s loss. A spokesperson for the family asked for privacy and said they would not release any public comments. Local officials expressed condolences and thanked the volunteers who joined the rescue effort.
Many beachgoers at Garrapata State Beach say the waves looked unusually strong that day. The beach has a history of dangerous surf, and officials often warn visitors to stay back from the water’s edge. Even experienced swimmers find the area challenging.
A Reminder of Ocean Dangers
Rescue crews say this tragedy highlights the risks of unpredictable coastal waters. Sudden waves can sweep people into deep water within seconds. Authorities urge visitors to keep a safe distance from strong surf, especially during winter months when swells grow more powerful.
The loss of a father and his daughter has touched people across California and Alberta. Friends and community members continue to share messages of support for the grieving family as they navigate a devastating and unexpected tragedy.
