Autopsy Reveals Cause of Murder Victim’s Death

The Hawai’i Police Department reports that autopsy results from a Thanksgiving murder in Hilo determined that the victim died from a gunshot wound to the chest.

Keola Penovaroff, 39, was found unresponsive Thursday night outside a residence along West Kawailani Street in Hilo. When Police arrived, they reportedly saw an apparent gunshot wound.

Penovaroff was taken to Hilo Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 10:57 p.m.

HPD arrested 24-year-old Kalani Lono Kaohimaunu on Saturday morning in Kalapana. He was charged on Sunday with second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, ownership of a firearm prohibited, and place to keep a firearm in connection with the shooting.

Kaohimaunu’s bail was set at $1 million and he was scheduled to appear in court Monday.

A 52-year-old woman was also arrested with Kaohimaunu, Charity Kumia was taken into custody on unrelated charges. Police released Kumia on Monday, pending further investigation.

Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting should call Detective Todd Pataray at 961-2382 or e-mail him directly at todd.pataray@hawaiicounty.gov.

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