Media Release

An autopsy conducted Friday morning (September 26) on a male body found floating at Kuhio Wharf in Hilo on Tuesday (September 23) determined the cause of death to be asphyxiation due to salt water drowning. 

The decedent remains unidentified. Detectives with the Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Section are continuing the investigation, which is currently classified as an unattended death.

The decedent was found wearing faded denim trousers and a reddish mesh football jersey with the name "DOUGLAS" printed on the back. He is described as possibly Caucasian and approximately 5-foot-9 with a medium build.

Police ask anyone with information about this individual’s identity or the circumstances surrounding his death to call Detective John Rodrigues at 961-2382 or the police non-emergency number at 935-3311. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.