A contemporary replica of a mahiole, or feather helmet worn by high-ranking Hawaiian chiefs, has been stolen from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawai‘i Island.
The national park’s law enforcement officers are now asking the public to help identify two individuals suspected of stealing the cultural artwork, which was displayed in the lobby of the Volcano House Hotel.
Newly released images from the hotel’s video surveillance system show a man carrying a large item in a reddish cloth, and a woman near the hotel’s front desk around the same time of the theft.
This helmet, created by artist Rick San Nicolas, resembles those once worn by high-ranking Hawaiian royalty. Photo Courtesy: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Images from the hotel’s video surveillance system show a woman near the hotel’s front desk around the same time of the theft. Photo Courtesy: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
The contemporary replica of a traditional feather helmet was stolen on Friday, Jan. 13. Photo Courtesy: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
The helmet – created by renowned local artist Rick San Nicolas – was snatched on Friday, Jan. 13 around 11:45 p.m.
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Anyone with information is asked to contact the National Park Service by calling or texting 888-653-0009. Tips can also be submitted online at Go.nps.gov/SubmitATip or via email at [email protected].
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