FBI Continues Big Island Search for Brianne Kirk

The Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to search for 9-year-old Brianne Kirk, who authorities say is with her non-custodial parent, Brian Donald Kirk.

According to the FBI, developments have been made in the search. At 4 p.m. Monday, Brianne and her father were reportedly seen by a “credible witness” at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The FBI says the witness saw the pair along with a blonde woman who appeared to be in her 40’s.

Additionally, a Big Island resident and long-time associate of Brian told the FBI that when he spoke to him in April, he mentioned that he had plans to “sail to Malaysia” from the Big Island with his daughter.

FBI officials say they are taking all leads seriously, but that at this time, it is unclear if Kirk has the sailing expertise or financial means to sail to Malaysia.

Authorities initiated a request for public assistance in locating and recovering Brianne on Monday. FBI agents say Brianne was supposed to be returned to Colorado Springs, Colo. where she lives with her mother, who has primary custody. Brian, Brianne’s father, once lived on the Big Island but currently resides in Pine, Co. Officials say despite his lack of residential status on the Big Island, Brian remains well connected due to his social and family ties.

As part of spring break visitation, Brian took Brianne on March 22 and was supposed to return her on March 30. Instead, Brian text messaged Brianne’s mother and told her that they were heading to the Big Island where they would camp at a vacant lot on 20^th Avenue in Hawaiian Paradise Park. The FBI has confirmed that the pair arrived in Kona on March 24. Brian’s cell phone has been turned off.

In Jefferson County, Colo., a warrant for the arrest of Brian has been issued and a court order commanding law enforcement to take physical custody of Brianne has also been issued.

The FBI describes Brianne Kirk as a white female, age nine. She is reportedly less than 4’5” tall and has brown eyes and brown hair.

Brian Kirk has been described by the FBI as a white male, age 55. He is reportedly 6’0” and has brown eyes and brown hair.

FBI Special Agent Tom Simon says, “Brian Kirk is a loving father. The FBI does not want to demonize him or antagonize him in the press. He has spent his career as an independent insurance adjuster traveling to the aftermath of storms and natural disasters assisting people in making insurance claims. Our hope is that the media attention will prompt him to come forward with Brianne and facilitate her return to Colorado where he can deal with the custody arrangement in family court.”

Individuals who may have seen Brian or Brianne or who have information regarding their whereabouts should contact the Honolulu FBI office at (808) 566-4300.