HILO, Hawaiʻi – A Pa‘auilo man was arrested on Monday, June 2, 2025, after allegedly jumping into Hilo Bay in an attempt to evade police following an assault complaint. The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Jeremy Rios, was subsequently charged with burglary and assault offenses, in addition to outstanding warrants.
Hawaiʻi Island police initially responded to the area of Wailuku River and the “singing bridge” near the lighthouse on Highway 19 to investigate an assault. Upon their arrival, the alleged suspect, Rios, jumped into Hilo Bay and swam away to avoid apprehension. The Hawaiʻi Fire Department’s Search and Rescue team was summoned to the scene and stood by to provide emergency diving operations if needed. Rios eventually returned to shore and was arrested without further incident.
During the investigation into the assault complaint, Rios was also identified as the suspect in a burglary that occurred earlier that morning, around 5:08 a.m., at a nearby Hilo business. Video surveillance footage reportedly showed Rios breaking into a bar and unlawfully removing alcohol.
Rios has been arrested and charged with second-degree assault, second-degree burglary, and two outstanding warrants. He remains in custody at the Hilo Police Station as detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigation Section continue their investigation.
Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding this incident to contact Detective Daniel Tam of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2380, or via email at daniel.tam@hawaiicounty.gov.