What began as an anxious search in South Kohala wrapped up with relief on Thursday, after a 67-year-old man reported missing earlier in the week was found safe. Police confirmed that Jiro Ohnishi, last seen Tuesday afternoon near Waikoloa Road, had been located and was in good health. His disappearance had prompted neighbors and drivers in the Waikoloa and wider South Kohala area to keep a close eye out.
Police advisory and description
The Hawaiʻi Police Department issued a missing-and-endangered advisory on Thursday asking the public to help find Ohnishi, who was reported last seen around 4 p.m. Tuesday in the South Kohala district near Waikoloa Road. According to the department, Ohnishi was described as a Japanese man, about 5 feet 7 inches tall and approximately 171 pounds. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact 911 or call the police non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.
Found safe, local media reports
Big Island Now later updated its coverage Thursday evening to report that Ohnishi had been found in good health, following an updated Nixle/Everbridge advisory from the police department. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or other incidents connected to his disappearance.
How residents can stay informed
For residents who want to stay in the loop when similar advisories go out, the Hawaiʻi Police Department offers email and text alerts through its online alerts page. Police ask anyone who spots a reported missing person to call 911 right away and to share tips through the non-emergency line so investigators can follow up. Both the department and local media credited community members who shared information and kept watch for Ohnishi while the search was underway.
