Missing Kailua-Kona Man Found Safe After Community Search

Hawaiʻi Island police reported at 10:28 a.m. Jan. 2 that Angelo Buswell, 45, of Kailua-Kona, who had been reported missing, was located in Kona and found to be in good health. Authorities had earlier asked the public for help in finding Buswell, describing him as endangered and potentially in need of medication.

Buswell was last seen on New Year’s Day at about noon on the 76-6100 block of Pakalana Road in Kailua-Kona. At the time he was reported missing, police said he was wearing a baseball cap with an Eagles insignia, an Eagles jersey, and blue and black board shorts. Buswell is Hispanic, with a medium build and a tan complexion, about 5 feet 10 inches tall and 185 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes. He has multiple tattoos, including the name Hailey on his right forearm and a tribal design around his right upper arm.

The swift public notice and outreach reflect standard practice when an adult is classified as endangered, particularly when medication needs are involved. Interrupted access to prescribed medications can pose immediate risks to an individual's health and increase the urgency for search and outreach efforts. For family members and neighbors, these cases underscore the stress and uncertainty that follow a disappearance and the importance of timely communication between families, health providers, and law enforcement.

Police requested assistance from anyone who might have information during the search phase. Kona residents who have information related to missing persons or public safety concerns are asked to contact Kona Patrol Officer Vincent Sanekane at the department’s non-emergency line, 808-935-3311, or by email at Vincent.Sanekane@hawaiipolice.gov.

Beyond the immediate relief that Buswell was found safe, the incident also raises broader public health and policy questions for Big Island County. Ensuring continuity of care for residents who rely on medication often requires coordination among medical providers, pharmacies, social services, and law enforcement. Gaps in that network can leave some people, especially those with limited resources or unstable housing, more vulnerable when they go missing. Community organizations and health systems on the island may need to examine outreach and support mechanisms to reduce the frequency and severity of such emergencies.

For neighbors and family members, the outcome offers reassurance while serving as a reminder to check on vulnerable friends and relatives, to maintain up-to-date emergency contacts, and to alert authorities promptly if someone’s absence is out of character.