Tragedy in Paradise: Pregnant Mother and Husband Drown on Hawaii Vacation

A pregnant mother and her husband from Washington state have tragically drowned while vacationing in Hawaii, leaving behind their 18-month-old son orphaned.

In a heart-wrenching incident, a pregnant mother and her husband from Snohomish, Washington, have lost their lives while on a vacation in Hawaii, leaving their young son orphaned. Ilya Tsaruk, 25, and Sophia Tsaruk, 26, were reportedly swimming or snorkeling off the coast of the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve in Maui when they encountered difficulties and drowned.

According to the County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety, rescuers received a report of "swimmers/snorkelers in distress" at around noon on Saturday. They quickly arrived at the scene and found Sophia unresponsive in the water, approximately 100 to 150 yards from shore. She was pulled from the water and CPR was administered, but to no avail.

Tragedy in Paradise: Pregnant Mother and Husband Drown on Hawaii Vacation

Rescuers then went back into the water and located Ilya on the ocean floor. Attempts to revive him through CPR were also unsuccessful. Both parents were pronounced dead at the scene.

The couple's tragic deaths have left their 18-month-old son orphaned. According to a fundraising page set up for the family, the young boy was staying with his aunt and uncle at the time of his parents' passing.

Tragedy in Paradise: Pregnant Mother and Husband Drown on Hawaii Vacation

Sophia was reportedly pregnant with a baby girl, adding to the immeasurable grief and loss for the family. Ilya and Sophia were described as devout Christians who actively served in their church and the community. Sophia possessed a beautiful singing voice, and the couple sang in a worship group together.

The incident occurred despite the reported calm surf conditions that day. The Maui Fire Department expressed their condolences to the Tsaruks' family and urged beachgoers to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines.

Tragedy in Paradise: Pregnant Mother and Husband Drown on Hawaii Vacation

"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims during this difficult time," said Maui Fire Chief Brad Ventura. "We remind the public to always heed ocean safety warnings and be aware of the potential hazards."

The tragic drowning has sent shockwaves through the community and raised questions about the safety of popular swimming and snorkeling spots in Maui. The best ranked beach in the U.S., according to Tripadvisor, is located in Lahaina, Maui, highlighting the importance of safety precautions for visitors and locals alike.

Tragedy in Paradise: Pregnant Mother and Husband Drown on Hawaii Vacation

As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the Tsaruks' drowning continue, the family and friends of the victims are left to grapple with the unimaginable loss of two beloved parents and the future that has been stolen from their young son. The fundraising page for the family has garnered significant support from those wishing to offer condolences and financial assistance.