Police renew request for information about attempted bank robbery

Hawaii Island police are renewing their request for the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted for the attempted robbery of a bank in Hilo in January.

Just before 6 p.m. on Jan. 10, police responded to a reported robbery attempt at the Territorial Savings Bank branch on Makaala Street in Hilo, according to the Hawaii County Police Department. Responding officers learned that at about 5:53 p.m., a man had entered the bank and produced a note demanding money. He fled the bank without any money and was last seen running toward Pohaku Street. No one was injured during the robbery attempt.

The suspect was described as Caucasian, in his mid to late 20s, about 6 feet 1 inch to 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 185 to 200 pounds with short wavy black hair and facial acne, according to police. He was last seen wearing a blue-and-black striped pullover, jeans, and black shoes with red laces.

The suspect appears to be the same individual who entered the bank earlier in the day to inquire about banking there. Police also recovered bank surveillance video and still images.

Anyone with information on this incident or who may know the identity of the suspect is asked to call the department’s nonemergency line at 935-3311 or contact Detective Dean Uyetake at 961-2379 or deuytetake@co.hawaii.hi.us.

Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.