BREAKING NEWS: Police have just released the preliminary autopsy results for the 39-year-old father and his 7-year-old daughter who died after being swept into the ocean in Monterey County — and officials confirm that the cause of death was consistent with drowning, with both victims showing signs of severe hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to the cold Pacific waters.
According to investigators, the autopsies revealed no evidence of trauma, foul play, or underlying medical conditions that could have contributed to their deaths. The findings support the initial conclusion that the pair were caught off guard by a sudden, powerful wave before being pulled into dangerous surf conditions.
Authorities noted that the water temperature at the time was extremely low, and hypothermia would have set in quickly, significantly reducing their ability to swim or call for help.
The official report also confirmed the daughter’s age as 7 years old, correcting earlier statements made during the initial response.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, but police say the autopsy results strongly indicate a tragic accident caused by hazardous coastal conditions.
More updates are expected as authorities finalize their reports.