Authorities in Hawai‘i are seeking the public's help in tracking down a man who recently went missing in Lower Puna. 39-year-old Kasey Bell, along with his friend 48-year-old Halii Anderson, were reported missing after they did not return from a hiking trip in the lava fields near Leilani Estates, a location known for its proximity to recent volcanic activity. The pair had told family members they planned to return early yesterday but were absent long past their expected arrival.

The search began in earnest when a family member notified the police of their absence late yesterday afternoon. In response, the Hawai‘i Fire Department launched a helicopter search while the police issued a Nixle alert and commenced a ground search to thoroughly comb the area. Last night brought a twist to the search effort as the families of the hikers were able to breathe a sigh of relief when Anderson returned home in good health.

In an odd turn of events, though Bell was also reported to have returned home, he promptly left before police could officially verify his well-being. This unanticipated move was particularly notable as police revealed that Bell has an outstanding $3,000 family court bench warrant. Due to this abrupt departure, Bell is still considered missing by the authorities.

Bell is described as Caucasian, six feet tall with a medium build, weighing 189 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. His last known outfit was a black tank top shirt paired with blue shorts. The police are now reaching out to actively encourage anyone with information on Bell's whereabouts to promptly get in touch. They have provided the police department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311 as a means for the public to to quickly share any potential leads.