Tourist beaten, robbed in Kona

Big Island police are investigating the beating and robbery of a tourist Monday night in Kona.

At 10:35 p.m., Kona patrol officers responded to a report of a robbery in the rear parking lot of Alii Sunset Plaza, which is located between Kuakini Highway and Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona.

A 50-year-old Los Angeles man reported that he walked toward a group of men at the rear of the plaza, and was attacked by two of them. One reportedly struck him on the chin with an unknown object and removed an undisclosed amount of cash from his pants pocket. The other one reportedly struck him in the face with his fist.

The suspects left the area in a small white sport-utility vehicle.

The first suspect, the passenger, was described as a short, stocky local male between 21 and 25 years old with spiked hair. He was wearing white shorts and a white shirt. The second suspect, the driver, is described as 5-foot-10, thin, possibly in his 20s, with a dark complexion and black curly hair.

The victim suffered a broken jaw, loss of teeth and a cut on his chin. He was taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was treated and released.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information about the identity of the suspects is asked to call Detective Sean Smith at 326-4646, ext. 262.

Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at 329-8181 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.