Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, of Covington, Washington, is accused of throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal swimming near the shore in Lahaina, Maui, on May 5, 2026, narrowly missing its head [1, 2]. Authorities charged Lytvynchuk with harassing and attempting to harass a protected animal [1, 2].
Lytvynchuk was arrested in the Seattle area on May 13 after arranging to surrender to law enforcement [1, 2]. His lawyer stated, "I want to be resoundingly clear to the public — he never intended to injure the monk seal," adding that Lytvynchuk was trying to protect sea turtles [2].
Following the incident, Lytvynchuk has been assaulted, threatened, and doxxed, according to his attorney [1, 2].
The endangered monk seal, known locally as "Lani," is a beloved member of the Maui ocean community. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen condemned the act, calling the seal "not just a seal to us … [but a] part of our ocean ‘ohana in Lahaina" and emphasizing his responsibility to protect both people and wildlife on the islands [1].
The Hawaiian monk seal population is estimated at about 1,600 individuals worldwide according to NOAA [2]. Under the Endangered Species Act, Lytvynchuk faces up to one year in prison and fines up to $50,000 per charge. The Marine Mammal Protection Act carries additional penalties of up to $20,000 in fines [2].
Lytvynchuk is scheduled to appear in federal court in Honolulu on May 27, 2026 [1]. He also has an upcoming court date on August 19, 2026 [2].
