Hawai‘i Island police are investigation a domestic-related incident that recently took place at the Orchidland Estates subdivision of Puna. On Friday, April 28, Puna patrol officers responded to an unknown disturbance at an Orchidland residence and came in contact with 52-year-old Christopher Roy Howlind who appeared to be experiencing a medical episode. He also had visible injuries to his hands and his clothes were bloodied. A large blood-covered sword was also discovered near Howlind.
Officers summoned medical assistance and while awaiting the ambulance they located a deceased female victim with severe knife wounds to her neck, upper body, arms, and hands. Howlind was immediately arrested for murder. While en-route to the Hilo Cellblock, Howlind began vomiting and became unresponsive and was taken to the Hilo Medical Center Emergency Room. It is believed he ingested a chemical liquid prior to police arriving at the scene. Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigation Section are continuing the investigation, which is classified as second-degree murder. Detectives are currently working on a search warrant for the property where the 58-year-old victim, her 37-year-old son, and Howlind reside. An autopsy will be scheduled for early next week to determine the exact cause of death. Police ask anyone who may have information related to this incident to contact the police department’s non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311, or Detective Clarence Davies of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2382, or via email at Clarence.Davies@hawaiicounty.gov.