Family and friends are grieving the tragic deaths of a young Washington state couple, Ilya and Sophia Tsaruk, who died while snorkeling on vacation in Hawaii. The couple was found unresponsive near the shore of Āhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve on Maui. Sophia, who was pregnant, and Ilya, both in their mid-20s, had an 18-month-old son who was not with them at the time.
Despite efforts by first responders to resuscitate them, both Ilya and Sophia were pronounced dead at the scene. The couple lived in Snohomish, Washington, and a celebration of life and burial service will be held for them in Washington.
Their family members revealed that the Tsaruks were on a babymoon with two other couples when the incident occurred. They were wearing full-face snorkel masks at the time, but it is unclear if the equipment played a role in the tragedy. The family shared that Sophia and Ilya were eagerly preparing for the arrival of their unborn daughter, whom they planned to name Melody.
The surviving toddler is now being cared for by family members, and loved ones remember the couple for their excitement about life and the future. The cause of the incident remains unknown, and authorities have not disclosed if an investigation is underway.
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