Authorities are investigating after a naked man’s body was discovered floating in the water near Malibu Lagoon on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies and Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel responded shortly before 3:30 p.m. to reports of a body in the ocean along Malibu Road near Puerco Beach. First responders pulled the victim from the water, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The grim discovery comes directly on the heels of historic high surf and ocean surges fueled by Hurricane Marie, which severely battered the Southern California coastline.
While preliminary reports indicate the man may have suffered a medical emergency before entering the water, homicide detectives and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner are actively investigating whether rough sea conditions or foul play were involved. Authorities have not yet officially confirmed the victim’s identity.
Describing the response and ongoing inquiry, law enforcement officials stated:
“Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives responded to the scene and are working alongside medical examiners to determine the exact cause of death and circumstances surrounding the incident.”
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This is not the first time Malibu Lagoon has been the backdrop of a high-profile death investigation. In July 2023, maintenance workers and lifeguards made a gruesome discovery when a 55-gallon plastic drum washed into the lagoon.
Inside the barrel was the body of 32-year-old Javonnta Marshann Murphy, who had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Sheriff’s detectives subsequently arrested two acquaintances of Murphy in connection with the murder.
As homicide investigators work to establish a timeline for Wednesday’s incident, authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity along the shoreline near Malibu Lagoon to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau.
This is an ongoing investigation.
Related: Wanted Felon Choked Out by Lifeguard During Ocean Escape in Malibu (Video)
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