Update posted May 4:

– The Coroner’s Unit of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has identified the kayaker who drowned on May 2 in Montana de Oro State Park. He has been identified as 78-year-old Ralph Sutter of Arroyo Grande.

On May 2, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Montana de Oro regarding an adult male kayaker in distress. Witness reported that the kayaker was flipped over by waves. As a result, it appears the life vest he was wearing somehow slipped off his body.

Sutter was located, and CPR was performed, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Nest of kin have been notified.

Original article posted May 3:

Kayaker dies at Montana de Oro State Park

– San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of an adult male kayaker in distress at Montana de Oro State Park at approximately 10:20 a.m. on May 2.

A multi-agency response included the Sheriff’s Office, California State Parks, the United States Coast Guard, and Cal Fire.

Witnesses reported the kayaker was flipped over by waves. Authorities said it appeared the life vest he was wearing slipped off his body.

Responders located the kayaker and performed CPR. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The identity of the victim is pending notification of next of kin. No further information was available.