PUNA, Hawaii (KHON2) — Big Island authorities have began a murder investigation following a deadly domestic dispute in Nānāwale Estates subdivision in Pahoa late April 24.
Puna patrol officers responded to the residence following a phone call made by a 42-year-old woman reporting that a 45-year-old man at their residence was not breathing. According to the woman, she and the man were involved in a domestic dispute, alleged he tried to kill her and she strangled him, killing him.
Upon arrival, officers located the man slumped over in the driver’s seat of a vehicle. He was not breathing, did not have a pulse and his face appeared purple in color. Officers administered Narcan, to no avail. They then attempted to use an AED, but were unable to use the device due to the man’s condition.
Hawaiʻi Fire Department personnel arrived and were able to take over the life-saving measures before he was eventually taken to the hospital, dying while en route.
The female caller was arrested at the scene for second-degree murder and third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug. Upon arrest, the woman was found in possession of a white crystalline substance in her pocket, which tested presumptive positive as methamphetamine.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the man’s cause of death. The woman has not been formally charged with any crimes.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective David Poʻohina at (808) 961-2385 or at David.Poohina@hawaiicounty.gov.