Tourist Faces Charges for Alleged Attack on Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal

A Washington state tourist, Igor Lytvynchuk, is accused of hurling a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal. His lawyer argues he was protecting sea turtles. Lytvynchuk faces charges under environmental protection acts, while noting escalating threats against him since the incident.

Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, from Covington, Washington, is facing charges for allegedly throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal, an endangered species. While his defense claims he aimed to protect turtles, Lytvynchuk is charged with violations stemming from a video purportedly showing the incident on a Maui beach.

The video led to widespread outrage, with notable condemnation from local authorities. Scientists identified the targeted seal as an adult male known as R404. Lytvynchuk, unfamiliar with monk seals but familiar with sea turtles, believed he was repelling an aggressive sea lion, his attorney stated. Following the video's release, he's faced significant community backlash and threats.