Bail increased to $1 million for 71-year-old accused of killing a man with his van in Hilo

A judge in in Hilo Circuit Court on Friday increased the bail to $1 million for 71-year-old Robert Bradshaw, who is accused of murder by running over a 64-year-old man with his van.

Bail had been set at $510,000.

Bradshaw appeared for his initial appearance via video conference from a hospital bed. It is not clear if it is because of injuries sustained during the altercation that occurred Nov. 8 with the victim, identified as 64-year-old Edward Mendez.

On the day of the incident, Bradshaw was taken to Benioff Medical Center for treatment of injuries sustained during the altercation. But he was medically cleared the same day and transported to the East Hawai‘i Detention Facility.

The incident took place in the commuter parking lot of Mo‘oheau Park at the intersection of Kamehameha Avenue and Pauahi Street.

At approximately 7:20 a.m. on Nov. 8, Bradshaw threatened Mendez with a knife before the two men engaged in a physical struggle, according to police reports.

Bradshaw then drove his Ford E-350 Econoline van and hit Mendez, dragging him before fleeing east on Kamehameha Avenue.

Bradshaw has remained in custody since his first court appearance in Hilo District Court on Nov. 10. He was indicted on Nov. 12, and a $1 million warrant was issued.

An arraignment hearing is scheduled for Dec. 4.