Hawaii: California Man Dies During Honeymoon; Thieves Stole Couple's Belongings During Rescue

A California man's Hawaii honeymoon took a devastating turn when he lost his life while snorkeling. The unfortunate events continued to unfold as the couple's rental car was stolen during the ongoing rescue efforts, according to Insider.

Steven Phan, a 49-year-old Apple shop employee from Silicon Valley, drowned on June 1 while snorkeling off the coast of Oahu's Electric Beach.

Phan was on his honeymoon with his wife, Brittany Myers Phan, and was reported missing during the snorkeling excursion. Fortunately, a spear diver located him and initiated a rescue.

Bystanders performed CPR until emergency personnel arrived, and Phan was transported to a local hospital. Tragically, he passed away later.

As if the loss wasn't devastating enough, the couple faced another blow when their belongings, including their rental car, were stolen during the same time frame. The thieves took their cell phones, wallets, money, and clothing, leaving the widow without access to her husband's items.

A GoFundMe page set up for Phan confirmed the drowning and highlighted the additional hardship the couple faced due to the theft of their belongings. The fundraiser's descriptions expressed the deepening sense of tragedy and loss caused by the theft.

California Man's Wife Remains in Hawaii, Trying to Get an ID

The Honolulu Police Department is actively investigating the theft and auto theft during the unfortunate incident involving a California couple on their Hawaii honeymoon.

Amid the already heartbreaking situation, Brittany Myers Phan, the widow of Steven Phan, faced additional challenges. She needed a new ID to return to the Bay Area for her husband's burial, per KFOR.

Witnesses expressed their sympathy for Myers Phan, highlighting the proximity of tragedy and the logistical burdens she now faces. The image of a newlywed couple on their honeymoon, filled with joy and happiness, sharply contrasted with the current reality.

"I'm still kind of shaky inside just thinking, oh my God, they're honeymooners. It's supposed to be happy," said a local Waipahu resident Rhonda Aquino. "I feel so sad inside, like, [I] cannot believe still."

The loss of Steven Phan profoundly affects family and friends, describing it as devastating for Brittany and her loved ones. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated to support the family during this challenging time, with donations exceeding $26,000 as of Monday, PEOPLE noted.

The heartfelt messages shared on the fundraising page reflect Steven's profound impact on the lives of those around him, highlighting his qualities as a true friend and a fantastic husband. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him.

Phan's funeral is scheduled for Tuesday in Campbell, California.

Electric Beach Where California Man Dies Can Be Dangerous Sometimes

Electric Beach in O'ahu, Hawaii, is renowned for its snorkeling opportunities on the island's western coast. However, as the beach's popularity grows, locals like Aquino are urging caution due to strong currents in the area.

Aquino, who holds cherished childhood memories of Electric Beach, points out that the beach lacks a lifeguard despite the influx of tourists. She believes the beach's rising popularity, fueled partly by social media, has increased visitor numbers.

To address safety concerns, Andrea Tupola, a city council member, has announced plans to establish a lifeguard station and station attendants at Electric Beach. The installation is expected to be completed by early September.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Man drowns on honeymoon; thieves steal couple's belongings in Hawaii, friends say - From ABC 7 Chicago