Hawaii island police are searching for two men in connection with a Wednesday night assault on a 20-year-old man identified as a witness in a manslaughter case against one of the suspects.

Police identified the two wanted men as 21-year-old Waylen Keoni Carenio, who last known address was in Waimea, and 24-year-old Turner Kaimana Au of Hilo.

According to police, the victim was approached by one of the suspects outside Coqui’s Hideaway restaurant and brought to a vehicle where the other suspect was waiting. Once inside the car, the victim was restrained and assaulted, police said. He eventually broke free and escaped. 

Police confirmed that the victim, who sustained minor injuries in the assault, is a witness in a manslaughter case against Carenio.

Carenio was indicted last week on for allegedly recklessly causing the death of 44-year-old Roy Williams, Jr. during a fight outside a bar on Dec. 4. A bench warrant was issued following the indictment.

Carenio is described as 5 feet 7 inches, 150 pounds, with a medium build, fair complexion and short brown hair and brown eyes. He has several tattoos, including the word “KEONE” on his abdomen, “FBI” in cursive on his lower back, and full-sleeve tattoos on both arms. He was last seen driving a light colored four-door sedan, possibly an import.

Au is described as 5 feet 10 inches, about 180 pounds, with a medium build and green eyes and short brown hair that is sometimes dyed blonde. He often wears a mustache and goatee. He also has numerous tattoos, including a scantily clad woman on his back, “Harley Jane” on his left chest, intertwined black strands and a skull on his right forearm, and Polynesian designs on his left forearm.

Police warn that Carenio and Au may be armed and should not be approached. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of either men is asked to call 911 or 935-3311. 

Witnesses to the assault are asked to contact Detective Robet Almeida at 961-2386 or ralmeida@co.hawaii.hi.us. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 or 329-8181 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.