Big Island police are investigating the discovery of skeletal remains in Puna.
On May 24 at about 2:03 p.m., police responded to a report of skeletal remains in a forested area near mile marker 14 of Route 130 in Pahoa. Area I Criminal Investigations Section detectives and evidence specialists responded to the area and discovered a partial set of human skeletal remains. In addition to the remains, detectives also recovered a weapon that was located nearby, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
The remains were taken to Hilo Medical Center for an examination by the medical examiner, who was unable to determine a cause of death because of their condition. Police recovered identification that was found with the remains, but will rely on DNA for positive identification.
Detectives are continuing the investigation, which is classified as a coroner’s inquest.
Anyone with information on this case should call Detective Ernest Matsumoto at 961-2379 or email ematsumoto@co.hawaii.hi.us. Callers may also call the Police Department’s nonemergency line at 935-3311. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.