On Thursday afternoon, May 23, 2024, shortly before 4:00 p.m., members of the Area I Criminal Investigation Division executed a search warrant on a residence located on the 15-2000 block of 15th Avenue, in Kea’au, Hawai’i, in relation to an ongoing missing person investigation.
Upon arrival at the residence, police personnel immediately made numerous announcements identifying themselves and their intention of executing a search warrant. At this time, a loud “pop” was heard which resembled a gunshot. Police personnel then set up a secure perimeter, and began checking on nearby residences to insure their safety.
The department’s Special Response Team and Crisis Negotiation Team were activated as the residence may have contained an armed barricaded subject. Upon later entry into the residence, personnel located the body of a deceased male with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. A firearm was also located.
Upon securing the scene, police personnel processed the scene in regards to the deceased male party and missing person investigation.
An autopsy will be performed early next week to determine the exact cause of death.
The victim’s identity is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin.
Area I Criminal Investigation Division personnel are continuing this investigation and ask anyone who may have information regarding this incident to contact Detective Amy Omaya of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2381, or via email at amy.omaya@hawaiicounty.gov or the police department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.
Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the island-wide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.00. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers does not record calls or subscribe to any Caller ID service. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.