Big Island police are investigating the apparent drowning of a 77-year-old visitor from Missouri who was found motionless in the water yesterday during a snorkeling trip with a tour group.

The man has been identified as David Ebersole of Liberty, Mo.

The incident occurred yesterday morning in waters off the Kailua, Kona, coast. Ebersole was taken ashore at Honokohau Harbor and transported to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police said they do not suspect foul play. They have opened a coroner's inquest case and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.