A 72-year-old man from Florence, South Carolina, died Saturday morning, July 20, as a result of an incident that occurred while kayaking.

The kayaker departed from the beach at Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Ramp 43, east of the Cape Point Campground near Buxton, North Carolina.

Bystanders reported seeing the kayak capsize as he attempted to ride a wave about 50 yards from the beach. They swam out to pull the man out of the kayak and brought him to the beach.

Attempts at cardiopulmonary resuscitation were made but were unsuccessful. Several agencies and partners assisted in the incident, including the Dare County Emergency Medical Service and Sheriff’s Office, Hatteras Island Ocean Rescue, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore Rangers.

Because the fatal accident occurred while kayaking, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating the incident.

“We extend our condolences to the kayaker’s family and friends,” said David Hallac, Superintendent of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.