Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Hilo man, 44 year-old Davi Alvarez, was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Noelle Buffet which occurred on October 31, 2020 at the Val Hala Apartment Complex in Hilo. Police reports indicate that Buffet was stabbed once to the upper front, left side, chest area puncturing the right ventricle of the heart and lacerating the left lung.

On October 19, 2023, Alvarez appeared in Hilo Circuit Court where he entered a “No Contest” plea to the charge of Murder in the Second Degree (intentionally or knowingly caused the death of Noelle Buffett on October 31, 2020).

On Tuesday, Alvarez appeared in Hilo Circuit Court before being sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
The case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol, and the felony investigation was led by Detective John Balberde, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Malate.

“This was for Noelle and her ‘ohana. Although we know that it will not fill the immense void of their loss, we hope that this sentencing offers them some sense of closure,” said Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that Hawai‘i County law enforcement is committed to working hard to hold violent offenders accountable to protect our community.”

The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information to assist local law enforcement should call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.