Police Seek Public Help Locating 14-Year-Old Johnessa Elkin-Kanae Missing from Ainaloa

Hawaiʻi Island police are asking the public to help locate 14-year-old Johnessa Elkin‑Kanae, who was reported as a runaway after she was last seen in the Ainaloa area on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 at about 3:00 p.m. Authorities said Johnessa was wearing a black t-shirt and denim shorts when she was last seen.

Police described Johnessa Elkin‑Kanae as Hawaiian, with a light tan complexion, standing about 5'2" and weighing roughly 125 pounds. She has long wavy brown hair with red streaks and brown eyes. The department asked anyone with information to call the non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311 or to contact Puna Patrol Officer Lauren Antolin at (808) 965-2716.

The request for public assistance, issued by Hawaiʻi Island police on Jan. 20, underscores how community awareness is often critical in locating missing youths. In neighborhoods like Ainaloa and surrounding Puna communities, quick sharing of descriptions and timely calls to the non-emergency line can focus search efforts and reduce the time a young person is away from home.

Local residents may notice increased patrols or outreach from police as officers follow up leads. For families and caregivers, the case serves as a reminder to check recent communications, social media activity, and routes to common local spots such as parks, beaches, and community centers where teens in Puna sometimes gather. Schools and community organizations often play a role in spreading alerts; residents who recognize Johnessa or recall seeing someone matching her description on or after Jan. 19 are asked to contact police.

The incident also highlights broader community concerns about youth safety and the importance of coordinated responses between neighbors, school staff, and law enforcement. While details about the circumstances leading to Johnessa being reported as a runaway were not released, timely public tips remain one of the most effective tools for resolving missing person reports.

Anyone with information about Johnessa Elkin‑Kanae’s whereabouts should call the Hawaiʻi Island Police Department non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311 or reach Puna Patrol Officer Lauren Antolin directly at (808) 965-2716. Residents are urged to check local streets, vehicles, and gathering spots, and to contact police rather than approaching an unattended youth. Continued community vigilance will help bring clarity to the situation and support a safe return.