Search continues for missing 6-year-old boy

Hawaii Island police continue to ask for the public’s assistance in the search for Benjamin “Benny” Rapoza, a missing 6-year-old Hilo boy.

A multi-agency search effort has yielded minimal results during an extensive search for Rapoza, who was last seen about 3 p.m. Friday at a residence in the 2100 block of Kalanianaole Street.

He is described as local, standing about 3-feet tall, weighing about 50 pounds, slim build, with short brown hair, brown eyes, and a fair complexion.

He was last seen wearing only a diaper.

Police are concerned for his welfare as Benjamin is diagnosed with nonverbal autism.

Saturday’s efforts included personnel and assets from the Hawaii Fire Department, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, U.S. Coast Guard, “Team Adam” from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, both Area I and II Criminal Investigations Divisions and South Hilo Patrol.

Community members and concerned citizens from the Keaukaha and Hilo areas also volunteered to assist in the search.

Police continue to ask anyone with information on Rapoza’s whereabouts to call the Detective BJ Sagon at 961-8883 or email bobbie-jo.sagon@hawaiicounty.gov.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 and could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.
Source: Hawaii Tribune Herald