11 a.m. UPDATE: NR 01-06-2026 (Public Help Requested in Locating Missing ‘Ele‘ele Man)

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DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
REIKO MATSUYAMA, MANAGING DIRECTOR

News Release

For Immediate Release: January 6, 2026

11 a.m. Update: Tyson Hawelu has been located and is in good health. The Kaua‘i Police Department thanks the public for their assistance.

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Public Help Requested in Locating Missing ‘Ele‘ele Man

LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing man.

Tyson Hawelu, 38, of ‘Ele‘ele, has been reported as missing. His last known contact was on January 4, 2026. Hawelu is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall, approximately 170 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He is known to frequent the ‘Ele‘ele area and may be operating a silver 2020 Toyota Tacoma with Nevada license plates.                                                                            

Anyone with information is urged to contact KPD Dispatch at (808) 241-1711. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at (808) 246-8300, submit a tip at crimestopperskauai.org, or use the Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i P3 Tips Mobile App. 

Tyson Hawelu, 38, approximately 5’6” and 170 lbs, last heard from on January 4, 2026.

Hawelu is known to frequent the ‘Ele‘ele area and may be operating a silver 2020 Toyota Tacoma with Nevada license plates.

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Media Contact:

If you are a member of the media with an inquiry for the Kaua‘i Police Department or its representatives, please email kpdpio@kauai.gov. Mahalo!