Earlier this week, Hawai‘i Island police arrested a man who tried to escape by swimming in Hilo Bay. The suspect, Jeremy Rios from Pa‘auilo, had allegedly been involved in an assault near the Wailuku River before making his failed water getaway, as reported by the Hawaii Police Department.
Pursuant to a complaint of assault in the vicinity of the iconic "singing bridge" close to Hilo's lighthouse, law enforcement officials were hastened to the scene; whereupon their arrival, Rios made the ill-advised decision to plunge into the bay in hopes of slipping police clutches but his plan proved unavailing as rescue teams from the Hawai‘i Fire Department were quick to hover over the potential crisis situation ready with emergency diving operations if necessary. The 43-year-old Rios eventually returned to shore on his own volition and was taken into custody without further incident, Hawaii Police Department reported.
Later that day, police linked Rios to an earlier burglary at a nearby bar, where security cameras caught him stealing alcohol early Monday morning. This footage helped detectives identify him. Rios was arrested for second-degree assault, second-degree burglary, and two outstanding warrants. He is now being held at the Hilo Police Station, where detectives are continuing their investigation, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
The case is still under investigation, and detectives, including Daniel Tam, are asking the public for help. Anyone with information is encouraged to call (808) 961-2380 or email [email protected], as per the Hawaii Police Department.
