American tourist dies after being swept away by strong tides in Watamu

A 69-year-old American tourist died after being overwhelmed by strong ocean tides while hiking on an island off the coast of Watamu in Kilifi County.

The deceased was identified as Tony Mark Anderson, a United States citizen.

According to police, the incident occurred at about 1:50 p.m. on Monday when Anderson and a Kenyan companion were hiking on an island near Seven Island Beach in the Indian Ocean.

As the pair attempted to return to the mainland after the tide began rising, Anderson was overpowered by the strong currents. His companion tried to rescue him but was unable to because of the water’s force.

The two were eventually rescued by boat and brought back to the mainland, where cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered before Anderson was rushed to Watamu Reef Hospital for emergency treatment. He was later referred to Watamu Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police officers who responded to the incident established that Anderson had travelled to Kenya with his wife and two children on July 11, 2026, for a holiday.

His body, which had no visible external injuries, was moved from Watamu Hospital to Star Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is scheduled.

Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) officers from Malindi documented the scene, while police said investigations into the incident are ongoing. Preliminary findings indicate the death was caused by drowning after the victim was overwhelmed by strong tidal currents.

His family was informed of the tragedy.