Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a home invasion robbery that occurred on Wednesday afternoon, March 16, 2022.

Shortly after 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, South Hilo patrol officers responded to a reported armed robbery incident at a residence on Alakahi Place in Pepe‘ekeo.

Responding officers contacted the 81-year-old victim who reported being in his residence when two male suspects entered and grabbed him from behind, detained him, and physically assaulted him. The assailants removed a firearm owned by the victim, his cellular telephone, wallet, and an undisclosed amount of money.

After the suspects left the residence, the victim drove to a nearby neighbor’s residence to request assistance calling 911. Responding Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel treated the victim for injuries he sustained to his neck and facial area. However, later in the evening the victim’s symptoms worsened and he was transported via ambulance to the hospital, where he remains in intensive care.

The male suspects were described as “local,” possibly being in their 20’s. One was wearing a jacket. It is unknown if they left the area on foot or in a vehicle.  They should be considered armed and dangerous.

Area I Criminal Investigation Section personnel responded to the scene to further this investigation and assist in processing the residence for forensic evidence possibly left behind by the suspects.

Police ask anyone with information about this incident or who may have observed suspicious activity in the area to contact Detective Jeremy Kubojiri at (808) 961-2378 or email Jeremy.Kubojiri@hawaiicounty.gov or call the police department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.