A firefighter was critically injured Tuesday in a rough water training accident off Diamond Head. A second firefighter was taken to the hospital for evaluation, and was subsequently released. The two were apparently training on Jet Skis in rough surf and police sources say they were knocked down by a large wave. Sources say 63-year-old Cliff Rigsbee was knocked off his feet and became unconscious.
Friends of Rigsbee are shocked that the veteran fireman and accomplished athlete ran into trouble at the surf break known as "Suicides." They say Rigsbee is a nationally-ranked triathlete who is now a triathlon coach and a fire rescue captain.
A HFD spokesman said the accident happened about 10:45 a.m.
"We have great concern for both of those involved," said Fire Capt. David Jenkins. "There is an inherent danger in firefighting. Although, we do take all appropriate, necessary precautions to keep ourselves safe."
The two were from the Waikiki fire station.
"On behalf of the members of the Honolulu Fire Department, our thoughts and prayers are with the injured firefighter," said Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves, in a news release.