82-year-old Woman Accosted at Hilo Park

Two men tried to rob an 82-year-old woman early today at a popular Hilo park.

Police said the tourist was walking near Liliuokalani Park on Banyan Drive at about 6:30 a.m. when one man approached her from behind and tried to steal her purse, while another man watched.

The attack forced the woman to fall, but the attempt to steal her handbag failed.

The two men then fled the area.

The woman was uninjured, police said.

One suspect was in his 20s, about 6-feet tall with a slim build. The other was about 5-foot-6, also with a slim build. Both were wearing dark clothing.

Police said while the park and the associated Banyan Drive peninsula are relatively safe – they are a popular location for walkers and joggers – those visiting the area in the early morning or late evening hours need to be aware of their surroundings.

Anyone who may have witnessed the robbery attempt is asked to call the police department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.