A shocking viral video from Hawaii has sparked outrage across social media after a tourist was arrested for allegedly throwing a large rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal resting near the shore in Maui.
According to reports from NBC News and the Associated Press, federal agents arrested 38 year old Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk from Washington state after witnesses filmed him throwing a coconut sized rock toward the seal near Lahaina, Maui.
The Seal Was a Beloved Local Symbol
The monk seal involved in the incident is known locally as “Lani,” a well known Hawaiian monk seal loved by many residents and visitors. In Maui, Lani had become more than just a wild animal. For many people, the seal represented healing and hope after the devastating Lahaina wildfires that destroyed parts of the community in 2023.
Witnesses said the seal appeared frightened after the rock was thrown. Authorities stated that the rock narrowly missed the animal’s head. Even though the seal was not physically struck, wildlife experts explained that disturbing or harassing endangered marine mammals is a serious federal crime in the United States.
Viral Video Triggered Massive Anger Online
The incident quickly spread across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and news outlets worldwide. Many viewers were furious after reports claimed the suspect responded to witnesses by saying he was “rich” and could pay any fine.
Videos circulating online also showed local residents confronting the man after the incident. The case has now become a wider discussion about respecting wildlife, tourism behavior, and protecting endangered species in fragile ecosystems like Hawaii.
Why Hawaiian Monk Seals Are So Important
The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Experts estimate that only around 1,600 remain in the wild today. The species is found almost entirely in Hawaii and is protected under both the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
These seals already face many threats including habitat loss, fishing gear entanglement, ocean pollution, disease, and human disturbance. Conservationists say even small acts of harassment can affect their survival and behavior.
Federal Charges and Possible Punishment
Authorities confirmed that the suspect now faces federal charges related to harassment of a protected endangered species. If convicted, he could face prison time and fines totaling tens of thousands of dollars.
Officials in Hawaii strongly condemned the act. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen stated that cruelty toward wildlife does not reflect the values of Hawaii and promised that the matter would be taken seriously.
A Reminder About Respecting Wildlife
The story has become emotional for many people not only because of the endangered animal involved, but because the seal had become part of the local community’s identity after tragedy.
Wildlife experts continue to remind tourists and residents that wild animals should never be touched, chased, disturbed, or approached closely, even if they appear calm or friendly. Protected species like Hawaiian monk seals rely on safe resting spaces to survive.
As the video continues spreading online, many people say the incident highlights an important message:
Being a visitor in nature also means respecting the life already living there.