Body Found Along Daniel K. Inouye Highway

The discovery of a body in a vehicle along Daniel K. Inouye Highway Tuesday morning is being investigated by the Hawai’i Police Department.

Authorities say just after 5 a.m., information led officers to a silver Honda sports-utility vehicle parked in an area along the roadway against the flow of traffic near the 27 mile marker.

Inside the vehicle, the responding officers discovered an unresponsive man.

Both Area I Criminal Investigation Section and evidence specialists responded to the scene where further investigation was carried out, according to officials.

Police say foul play is believed to be a factor in the death. Currently, the case is classified as coroner’s inquest.

An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday to determine the exact cause of death.

According to police, a possibly related incident is being investigated by detectives. On Monday just before midnight, officers responded to a reported shooting in the upper Waiakea Uka area. A shooting victim was not located, and a first-degree terroristic threatening investigation was initiated.

Anyone who may have seen the silver Honda SUV parked along the highway, a man hitchhiking towards the Kona direction, or picked up the hitchhiker should call Detective Robert Almeida at 961-2386 or e-mail [email protected]. The public may also contact Detective Grant Todd by calling 961-2385 or e-mailing [email protected].

Those who prefer to remain anonymous should call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.