The search for 34-year-old Simon Varela from Ka‘ū, reported missing since December, now enters a new phase as Hawai‘i Island police call on the public to renew their focus. Simon was last spotted in the Hawaii Ocean View Estates, inside a residence on the 92-2100 block of Ocean View Parkway, a sighting that's grown cold since December 15, 2024.
Matched with a description of 6 feet in height and 180 pounds, Varela carries the distinct appearance of shoulder-length blonde hair paired with blue eyes. Police reports indicate that he might be traversing the island in a 2003 gold-colored Toyota Matrix, distinguished by its four-door station wagon build and the telling mark of extensive rust tarnishing its hood, a testament to the island's salty air, bearing Hawai‘i license plates ZMF837.
Authorities are intensifying their plea for any information that can light the way to Varela’s location. "Police are urging anyone with information about Varela’s whereabouts to contact the police department’s non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311 or Detective C. Melendez, of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section," as reported by the Hawaii Police Department. Detective Melendez can be reached via email for those hoping to shed light on this mystery.
Citizens who want to remain anonymous can submit tips to Crime Stoppers by calling (808) 961-8300, with the chance to earn up to a $1,000 reward. Calls are not recorded, and caller ID is not used, ensuring privacy for those helping the investigation.
