Body discovered on Hilo Bay shoreline identified

This story was updated at 4:56 p.m. Dec. 15.

The body of a middle-aged man discovered Sunday along the Hilo Bay shoreline near Isles in Hilo has been identified.

The Hawai‘i Police Department said in a media release Thursday afternoon that the victim was identified as 64-year-old Randall Malakaua of Hilo. After an autopsy was performed Wednesday, the forensic pathologist reported there were no signs of foul play and the preliminary cause of death is accidental drowning.

However, the final determination is pending toxicology test results along with a comprehensive review of the Malakaua’s medical history.  

Hilo patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel responded to the shoreline area fronting a business establishment in the 100 block of Lihiwai Street shortly after 12:30 p.m. Sunday after receiving a report of a body being located at the water’s edge.

Area I Criminal Investigation Section personnel responded to the scene to continue the investigation, which remains classified as a coroner’s inquest. Preliminary observations of the body did not identify signs of foul play, according to the Police Department.

Malakaua’s body was transported to Hilo Medical Center for official pronouncement of death.

Anyone who might have information relative to this case is asked to call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 808-935-3311 or contact Detective Clarence Davies with the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at 808-961-2382 or via email at Clarence.Davies@hawaiicounty.gov.