Hawaii County police are seeking the public’s help in identifying a woman whose body was caught on a fishing line Tuesday by the crew of a fishing boat near a lava-viewing area off Kalapana in the Puna District.
Police have not ruled out foul play.
"There are markings on the body that appear to be suspicious," said police Lt. Greg Esteban.
The woman was described as Caucasian, in her late 20s or early 30s, about 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a slim build, short brown hair, and "Veritas" tattooed on her lower back.
An autopsy is scheduled for this morning. Police are also reviewing missing-person cases.
THE BODY was reported to police and fire officials Tuesday at 6:28 a.m., and had been caught in fishing line from the boat.
A tour boat was also at the scene and contacted authorities, remaining with the body until divers from the Fire Department and their helicopter recovered the remains.
Shane Turpin, who captains a tour boat for Lava Ocean Tours and heard about the grisly discovery, said, "It’s not very often something like this occurs.
"There’s a lot of speculation it has something to do with lava," he said. "It could have been someone swimming on the coastline or fell off the coastline."
Police ask that anyone who might know the woman or have information on the case contact Detective Robert Almeida at 961-2386 or ralmeida@co.hawaii.hi.us, or Detective Fetuutuunai Amuimuia at 961-2278 or famuimuia@co.hawaii.hi.us.
Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call CrimeStoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona.
