On March 16, 2007, Kawika David Benjamin Chetron, a 32-year-old underwater photographer and software engineer, went missing in Humboldt County, California. An experienced diver with a degree from Harvard and a master's from Stanford, Chetron was also a physically fit and strong swimmer. He had been diving since 1986. On the day of his disappearance, he embarked on a solo diving trip from the public dock in Eureka, heading south to Blunts Reef, a remote area about 24 miles down the coast and five miles offshore near Cape Mendocino. He had indicated he would return by evening but never did.
Chetron was operating his 17-foot Boston Whaler Montauk boat, named Rapture. The day after he failed to return, the U.S. Coast Guard launched a search and discovered his boat anchored and partially submerged in approximately 100 feet of water near Blunts Reef. His camera was found on the boat, but there was no sign of Chetron or his diving gear. The water temperature at the time was 55 degrees, and the sea was calm. He was reportedly wearing a dark-colored dry suit.
The Coast Guard conducted an extensive search of the area, expanding it to 40 miles offshore and spanning from Cape Mendocino to Fort Bragg, utilizing an airplane, several helicopters, and multiple boats. Despite their efforts, Chetron was not located. After two days of searching, the operation was called off, and Chetron was presumed to have drowned in a diving accident. Blunt's Reef is known for its strong, "ripping" currents and often rough seas.
Chetron, who also went by his birth name David, was a passionate and talented underwater photographer who operated the website Cold Water Images. He had a deep appreciation for the wild and pristine nature of the California coast, having dived in various locations worldwide but always returning to his home state's waters. Friends and family described him as highly intelligent and adventurous, with a talent for capturing the beauty of the underwater world. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Department is the investigating agency for his case.
Last Seen: Mar 16, 2007
