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Hawaii County police said they are investigating the discovery of skeletal remains in Puna.
Officers responded on May 24 to a report of skeletal remains in a forested area near the 14-mile marker of Route 130 in Pahoa.
Detectives and evidence specialists responded to the area and found a partial set of human skeletal remains. Officers also found a weapon nearby.
Police recovered identification with the remains but will rely on DNA for positive identification. The county medical examiner was unable to detrmine the cause of death because of the condition of the remains.
Detectives are continuing the investigation, which is classified as a coroner’s inquest. Police Maj. Randy Apele said police are trying to determine whether the death was accidental or caused by any other means.
Police ask that anyone with information on this case contact Detective Ernest Matsumoto at 961-2379 or ematsumoto@co.hawaii.hi.us. People may also call the police non-emergency line at 935-3311. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona.
