The discovery of skeletal remains in Puna has triggered a police investigation.
The discovery of skeletal remains in Puna has triggered a police investigation.
On Friday, May 24 at about 2:03 p.m., police responded to a report of skeletal remains in a forested area near the 14-mile marker of Route 130 in Pahoa.
Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section and evidence specialists responded to the area and discovered a partial set of human skeletal remains, police said.
In addition to the remains, detectives also recovered a weapon that was located nearby. The remains were taken to Hilo Medical Center for an examination by the medical examiner, who was unable to determine a cause of death due to their condition.
Police said they 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.
Police ask that anyone with information on this case call Detective Ernest Matsumoto at 961-2379 or email at ematsumoto@co.hawaii.hi.us. Callers may also call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.