Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that 33 year-old Cameron Stewart of Arizona was charged in relation to a  June 29 Hawaiian Beaches murder incident.

As the Complaint alleges, Stewart was charged with a single count of Murder in the Second Degree (intentionally or knowingly cause the death of another person, by use of an arrow). Prosecutors have provided notice to seek an extended term of imprisonment, alleging that Stewart is an offender against the elderly.

Murder in the Second Degree usually carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole. An extended prison term would mean Stewart would face life in prison without the possibility of parole. Prosecutors have also provided notice of an intention to seek a mandatory prison term in accordance with statutory sentencing guidelines in relation to imprisonment for offenses against the elderly.

Stewart is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Hilo District Court tomorrow afternoon.  He remains in custody in lieu of $1 million bail.

The investigation was initiated by Officer Devin Ah Chong, Puna Patrol, and the felony investigation was handled by Detective Blaine Morishita and members of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Son. The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office