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Police Initiate Coroner’s Inquest Following Discovery of Body in Waimea

July 1, 2026 |
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Media Releases

Hawaiʻi Island police have initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation following the discovery of a decomposed body in Waimea on Tuesday morning, June 30, 2026.

At 9:29 a.m., South Kohala patrol officers responded to a report of a body in a stream near the 65-1200 block of Kawaihae Road.

Upon arrival, officers located a body in a shallow stream near the intersection of Kawaihae Road and Hawaiʻi Belt Road. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition. At this time, police do not suspect foul play.

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the decedent’s identity, sex, and cause of death. Positive identification is pending.

Police are asking anyone with information regarding this incident to please contact Detective Cacique Melendez of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 326-4646, extension 3262, or by email at cacique.melendez@hawaiipolice.gov.

Department:
Hawaiʻi Police Department
Division:
Area II Criminal Investigation Section
Officer:
Lieutenant David Po‘ohina
Report Number:
26-055247

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