Man Sought Following Robbery of Taxi Driver

Police are asking for the public’s help locating a 31-year-old Hilo man following the robbery of a Hilo taxi driver.

Police said Bernard K. Antoque is wanted for questioning in connection with the robbery that occurred Saturday morning.

Antoque is described as part-Hawaiian, about 5-foot-6, and 175 pounds with a fair
complexion, short black hair and brown eyes. He has a piercing below his lower lip and numerous tattoos on his neck, chest, abdomen, arms and legs.

The 59-year-old taxi driver told police that a fare he picked up in the Banyan Drive area asked to be taken to Mountain View. The fare then claimed he did not have the money to pay for the ride and asked to be taken to another location.

When the driver refused, the fare assaulted and threatened him, and took his bag containing cash.

The driver then forced the fare out of the cab and drove to Keaau to report the robbery to police.

The driver, who was not identified, was initially treated for minor injuries by fire department paramedics and later at Hilo Medical Center from which he was released.

Anyone who may have information on the case or the whereabouts of Antoque is asked to contact Det. Norbert Serrao at 961-2383 or nserrao@co.hawaii.hi.us.

Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.