Pregnant mother and husband drown while snorkeling in Maui

On a Saturday afternoon, Maui officials responded to distress calls regarding snorkelers in trouble at the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. The couple, Ilya and Sophia Tsaruk, both from Snohomish, Washington, were snorkeling when they encountered difficulties. Despite the swift response from firefighters and ocean safety personnel, both individuals were found unresponsive in the water. Sophia was located first, followed by her husband, who was discovered on the seabed approximately 100-150 yards from shore. CPR efforts were made but were ultimately unsuccessful, leading to their tragic deaths at the scene. The couple's 18-month-old son, Logan, was not present during the incident and was reportedly staying with his aunt and uncle. This heartbreaking event has left their families in deep mourning, as they grapple with the loss of both parents. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated to help cover the funeral costs, quickly surpassing its initial target of $100,000, with additional funds intended for the care of their surviving son. The fundraiser's creator expressed the profound grief felt by both families, emphasizing the emotional pain that will linger in the aftermath of this tragedy. The community has rallied to support the Tsaruk family during this difficult time, showcasing the compassion and solidarity that often emerges in the face of such devastating loss. As the families navigate their grief, they are also focused on ensuring that Logan is cared for and supported in the future. The outpouring of donations reflects the community's desire to honor the memory of Ilya and Sophia while providing for their child's needs.