The tourist who sparked outrage online after tossing a rock at a cherished seal in Hawaii is now in even more trouble.
Last week, a video surfaced showing the man throwing a rock at the unfortunate animal on a beach in Lahaina, Maui.
The Hawaii Department of Natural Resources clarified that the event – which involved an endangered monk seal – took place earlier this month on May 5. The seal was later recognized as “Lani”, a beloved figure in the local community and a symbol of the island’s resilience following the 2023 Lahaina wildfires.
The tourist who threw the rock quickly faced backlash from a local resident, who reportedly attacked the man.
Authorities have since identified the individual as Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, with updates confirming his involvement in the incident.
And as if a beating from a bystander and the wrath of thousands online weren’t enough, Lytvynchuk is now confronting even more serious consequences.
According to a statement from the United States Attorney’s Office, Lytvynchuk has been charged regarding the incident.
“United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, from Covington, Washington, was charged with a criminal complaint on May 12, 2026, for harassing and attempting to harass an endangered Hawaiian monk seal by throwing a large rock at the seal’s head, which violates the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act,” the statement indicates.
“Lytvynchuk was apprehended today, May 13, 2026, near Seattle, Washington, by Special Agents from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
“Currently, Lytvynchuk is in custody and is set to make an initial appearance on these charges in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington (Seattle courthouse) on May 14, 2026, at 9 AM.”
According to the criminal complaint, Lytvynchuk had been monitoring the monk seal’s movements as she approached the shore while playing with a floating log.
Lytvynchuk then threw a rock at the seal, which narrowly missed her head. Witnesses reported that she seemed to be frozen in place shortly after that.
When approached, Lytvynchuk displayed no regret, instead stating that he was “wealthy enough to cover the fines,” before walking away.
However, it now appears that he may face serious consequences for his actions. If found guilty, the tourist could receive up to one year for each count of harassing and attempting to harass an endangered Hawaiian monk seal.
Lytvynchuk will also be subject to a period of supervised release and could incur a fine of up to $50,000 under the Endangered Species Act, along with an additional fine of up to $20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
US Attorney Ken Sorenson stated: “The unique and precious wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands are celebrated symbols of Hawaii’s special place in the world and its remarkable biodiversity.
“We are dedicated to safeguarding our at-risk wildlife, especially the endangered Hawaiian monk seals, such as Lani.”
He concluded: “We promise that anyone who disturbs or tries to harm our protected animals will be swiftly held accountable in federal court.”
