Can you identify this man suspected in assault of 74-year-old in Hilo?

Hawai‘i Island police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in an assault that occurred earlier this month in Hilo.

Police reported that a 74-year-old man was driving through the parking lot of a business in the 200 block of Kino‘ole Street in the early morning of Sunday, Jan. 4.

The 74-year-old became involved in a verbal altercation with an unknown man operating a dark gray Infiniti SUV with an unknown license plate. Both men exited their vehicles and became involved in a physical confrontation.

The 74-year-old told police he was punched, fell to the ground, and struck his head. The suspect left in the SUV.

The victim sustained serious head injuries and was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where he was treated and released.

The case is being investigated as second-degree assault.

Police ask anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have information about the suspect’s identity to contact Det. Duane Rapoza Jr. of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at 808-961-2383 or by email at Duane.Rapoza@hawaiipolice.gov.

Anonymous tips may be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.