Hawai‘i PD initiate homicide investigation in Puna

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawai‘i Police Department have launched a homicide investigation following the discovery of a 71-year-old woman found dead in her Hawaiian Acres home late last week.

The victim has been identified as Yong Cha Kim of Mountain View.

According to reports, the homicide occurred sometime between the evening of Tuesday, June 18, and Thursday, June 20.

Puna patrol officers responded to a residence in the 16-1100 block of Uhini Ana Road in Mountain View after an elderly man found his wife laying unresponsive on the floor within their residence around 3:14 p.m. on Thursday, June 20.

According to the responding officers, Kim had sustained several suspicious injuries and that disturbance within the residence is apparent.

It was also reported that several items were missing from the residence.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Kim was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center where she was pronounced dead at 6:54 p.m.

A forensic pathologist performed an autopsy on the victim and determined that the cause of death was strangulation, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide on Friday morning.

HPD is continuing its investigation of the case that is now classified as second-degree murder.

Police ask anyone who may have information to call (808) 961-2381, or email Detective Amy Omaya.