May 17, 2026 – Monterey County Sheriff’s Office officials report that they along with personnel from CAL FIRE and California State Parks, responded to a report of a male subject floating in the water near rocks in the area of China Vista Point along the Big Sur coastline.

At approximately 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, a tourist contacted emergency dispatchers after observing a male floating in the ocean near the shoreline rocks. Lifeguards and emergency personnel from CAL FIRE and California State Parks were able to recover the individual from the water and bring him to shore. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts, the male was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team responded to assist with the difficult recovery operation and safely transported the decedent from the rocky shoreline area to the roadway above, where he was released to the custody of the Monterey County Sheriff Coroner’s Office.

The decedent has been identified as Alberto Hernandez, age 25 of Marina. According to family and friends, he was reported to be fishing off the rocks in the area where he was found.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office would also like to remind residents and visitors that the National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for the Monterey County coastline, including the Big Sur coastal region. Hazardous ocean conditions are expected through the weekend, including high winds, dangerous surf, strong rip currents, rough shore break conditions, and elevated waves.

Community members and visitors are strongly urged to stay away from the water’s edge, rocks, and coastal cliffs during hazardous surf conditions. Large waves and sneaker waves can unexpectedly surge onto shore with tremendous force. For your safety, never turn your back on the ocean.

View video here.

Source: Monterey County Sheriff’s Office