Police Open Two Cases in Connection to Sunday Volcano Incident

The Hawai’i County Police Department has initiated two cases, one case of assault and another of terroristic threatening, in connection with a confrontation that occurred early Sunday morning at a home in Volcano.

According to a police release, Puna Patrol officers responded at 4:16 a.m. to a report of a possible burglary in progress at a home on the 11-3700 block of Ali’i Anela Street in the Royal Hawaiian Estates subdivision.

A 25-year-old man reported to police that someone had banged on his door. Upon opening the door, an unknown man who was holding what appeared to be a firearm charged toward him. The two began fighting, and during the confrontation the victim was punched. A 20-year-old woman attempted to intervene, and she too was punched.

Eventually, the suspect ran toward the road, where he met another man who fled with him. Not too long later, a vehicle was heard speeding away.

The release decribed the suspect as local, 5-foot-8 to 5-foot-10, with a heavy build. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt that was partially covering his face.

Medical treatment was declined by both victims.

Anyone who may have information about this case are asked to call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.

Individuals who wish to remain anonymous may call the Big Island’s Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.