Man Dies After Altercation at Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal in Downtown Hilo
Background Information
A 34-year-old man tragically lost his life on Tuesday evening at the Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal in Downtown Hilo. The incident occurred after the man was involved in a physical fight with several men at a nearby homeless encampment. The Hawaiʻi Police Department has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
Details of the Incident
On January 16, 2024, shortly after 5:40 p.m., Hilo patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive male in front of the Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal. Witnesses reported that the man had been assaulted several minutes earlier.
Responding officers immediately began performing CPR on the victim until medics arrived. The victim was then transported via ambulance to the Hilo Medical Center Emergency Room. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at 6:28 p.m.
Investigation and Witness Testimonies
Area I Criminal Investigation Division personnel are actively investigating the incident. Numerous witnesses were interviewed at the scene, shedding light on the events leading up to the man’s death.
According to witness statements, the victim had been involved in an altercation with a 34-year-old female acquaintance near the homeless encampment along the fence line separating the Mo‘oheau parking lot and Bayfront Highway. Following this altercation, the victim engaged in a physical fight with several men.
After the fight, the victim retrieved some of his belongings from a tent and rode away on his skateboard to the front of the bus terminal, where he sat on a bench. Moments later, witnesses observed him falling forward and hitting his head on the ground.
Video Surveillance and Identifying the Suspects
Police detectives are currently reviewing area video surveillance footage in hopes of identifying the men involved in the altercation with the victim. This crucial evidence could provide valuable information to aid in the investigation.
Autopsy and Victim Identification
An autopsy is scheduled for Friday morning, January 19, to determine the exact cause of the victim’s death. At this time, the victim’s name is being withheld pending positive identification and the notification of next of kin.
Assistance Requested from the Public
The police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information regarding the case to come forward. Detective Kimo Keliipaakaua of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section can be reached at (808) 961-2375 or via email at kimo.keliipaakaua@hawaiicounty.gov. Alternatively, individuals can contact the police department’s non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community assistance in solving crimes and bringing justice to those affected. The police are relying on the public’s cooperation to help uncover the truth and provide closure for the victim’s family and loved ones.
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