Woman Arrested in Connection to Hilo Robbery

Investigation of a suspicious vehicle early Thursday morning led to the arrest of Kelly Marie Brightbill and a 26-year-old male in Kalaoa.

The Hawai’i Police Department’s Kona patrol officers arrested Brightbill after receiving a suspicious vehicle call at 3:10 a.m.

Brightbill was sought after following a robbery that occurred Tuesday at a convenience store in Hilo. Police arrested her for suspicion of first degree robbery, an unrelated third degree theft charge, and contempt of court.

Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigation Section continue to investigate, as Brightbill is held at the Kona cellblock.

At the same time, police arrested an unidentified 26-year-old Hilo man who was driving the black Mercedes, for unrelated traffic offenses.

The Mercedes that was used during the robbery that occurred on Tuesday was also recovered.

HPD detectives continue to seek the public’s assistance in locating the robbery suspect. The suspect has been described by police as a Caucasian male who might be in his early to mid 20’s and stands at about five-foot-five to five-foot-seven. He also may have a slim build, weighing about 125 to 130 pounds, with shoulder length blond hair.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call Detective Joel Field of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at 961-2382 or e-mail at jfield@co.hawaii.hi.us.

Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can call the Big Island Crime Stoppers hotline at 961-8300.