Santa Barbara police investigating body found near Shoreline Park

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Santa Barbara police are investigating after a body was found near Shoreline Park Thursday afternoon.

At around 11 a.m., police responded to the area after the body was seen below the cliffs near the lower section of Shoreline Park.

Police and fire crews worked to recover the body which was difficult to retrieve due to its location and the encroaching tide.

In their investigation, police say the body was washed ashore and the body was covered with a yellow tarp.

Police said the body appeared to be face down in the water and the high tide made it difficult for rescuers to assess the body.

Santa Barbara Fire Department rescue swimmers responded and were able to examine the person.

The body was identified to be a man in his late 60s.

Police say the man was deceased for several hours and was pronounced dead on the beach. 

When the tide receded, first responders were able to retrieve the body and transfer it to the Coroner's Office for further examination.

The cause of death is unknown at this time. The case is under investigation but so far, police say there are no obvious signs of foul play.

Harbor Patrol and fire crews assisted with the incident.