CAMBRIA, California — The family of a kayaker whose body was found near the shore by Cambria speaks out about their heartbreaking loss. On Wednesday the body of 28-year-old Jesse King was discovered floating in the water in Cambria. It is believed King was free diving after he launched his kayak off Sherwood Drive and Harvey Street. His body was found 200 to 300 yards off the coast. A certified diver and skilled surfer, the death of Jesse King has shocked everyone who knew him. Daring and full of life is how Jesse King's mother, Diana, describes her first born child. Since the time he was born, Jesse King was drawn to the water. "He's just loved the water and loved fishing. He loved surfing. He loved diving," said Diana King. It was a perfect fit when he joined the Coast Guard. With many accomplishments under his belt, King remained a daredevil. His mother says he was constantly pushing the limits. "He called me one time when he lived on the East Coast and he says, 'I'm going to go surfing,' and I said uh, is there supposed to be a hurricane coming? And he said, 'Yeah, that's why I'm surfing," said Diana. Diana says her son would often surf and dive alone despite her pleas not to do so. Wednesday afternoon her worst fear came true, her son's lifeless body was discovered floating in the water in Cambria. "They think that he was trying to dive to deep and he had a shallow water black out," said Diana. Sadly, the ocean King loved so dearly is what ultimately claimed his life. | | Jesse King, 28, died, possibly from shallow water blackout, while diving alone in kelp off Cambria, California. His family says in a strange way they find comfort in that fact. "Next to diving he loved surfing," said Diana, "and he was always looking for the next wave." A paddle out ceremony is being held by friends and family to honor Jesse King. That will take place in Morro Bay on Sunday. Another service will be held next week in Susanville, where King's family lives. by Stacy Daniel |
