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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Monday, June 1, 2009

Former mayor's brother rescued after six-day hike

Advertiser Staff

The brother of former Kaua'i mayor JoAnn Yukimura was rescued from Kaua'i waterfall, six days after he set out for Hanalei Valley via the Powerline Trail in Wailua.

The man was identified as Yukimura's brother by the Kaua'i Fire Department, but, at his request, his first name was not revealed.

According to the fire department, the man set out on the hike May 24 and found himself in a precarious spot after taking a short cut. An experienced hiker, he decided to remain where he was and wait for rescue.

Yukimura reported her brother missing to the Kaua'i Police Department Friday morning and the case was referred to the fire department.

Rescue specialists from the Lihu'e fire station joined police officers, rescue personnel from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, and the Kaua'i Search and Rescue Team in ground and air searches of the area.

The man was located at the top of the waterfall on Saturday.

In a statement, Yukimura thanked the rescue personnel.

"Until a family member or close friend is involved, one doesn't realize what rescue personnel go through to save a life and reunite families. We were deeply moved by the dedication, skill and compassion of all who helped."