Big Island police are asking for the public’s help identifying suspects in a reported robbery early Friday in Puna.
Big Island police are asking for the public’s help identifying suspects in a reported robbery early Friday in Puna.
A 39-year-old Pahoa man reported that he was walking around 2:15 a.m. along Highway 130 near Pahoa High School when he was accosted by five to six young men who were also walking in the area, according to police. One of them started a conversation with the victim. While the victim was distracted, the other men assaulted him and removed his backpack. They then fled the area.
The Pahoa man subsequently walked to Pahoa and notified police. He refused medical treatment, according to police.
Police have located the backpack that was taken during the assault.
The suspects were described as being in their 20s. One was described as “local looking,” approximately 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 7 inches tall, with dark short hair, a medium build and a medium complexion. He was wearing a black T-shirt, according to police.
Another suspect was described as having a light complexion, reddish-brown short hair and a muscular build. He was wearing a black T-shirt and a ball cap, according to police.
A third suspect was described as having dark shoulder-length hair, a goatee, a medium build and a medium complexion. He was wearing a T-shirt and ball cap, according to police.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident should contact Detective Norbert Serrao Jr. by phone at 961-2383 or by email at nserrao@co.hawaii.hi.us.
Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 329-8181 in Kona or 961-8300 in Hilo. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.