A 47-year-old New Jersey man died today after becoming distressed while snorkeling off West Maui, Maui police said.

Police identified the victim as Joseph Ramaikas.

Shortly before 10 a.m., Ramaikas became distressed while snorkeling about 75 yards from shore in the Black Rock area near the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, police said.

Good Samaritans pulled him from the water and brought him to shore on a kayak.

Back on shore, Ramaikas was able to sit and speak, but soon passed out and became unresponsive.

Beach-goers administered CPR until firefighters and paramedics arrived and took over. Ramaikas, however, could not be revived and died at the scene.

Police said an autopsy will be conducted.