Police Investigating Body Found in Nāʻālehu 

The Hawai‘i Police Department is investigating the death of an unidentified man in his 60s whose remains were located in a pasture off Highway 11 near the 63-mile marker in the Ka‘ū district.

Police were asked to conduct a welfare check for an individual on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 3:40 p.m. Police immediately initiated search efforts, however were unable to locate him. His remains were discovered in a pasture by area residents on Tuesday, August 18, at 2:50 p.m. and reported to police.

Based on the preliminary investigation, police believe the death appears to be related to the effects of Hurricane Lala and the extreme weather conditions associated with the storm. Foul play is not suspected at this time.

Positive identification of the deceased is pending. An autopsy will be scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to contact Detective Donovan Kohara of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 326-4646, ext. 3238, or by email at donovan.kohara@hawaiipolice.gov.