N※N

Search Continues for Missing Man with Dementia in Pearl City

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. for-missing-man-with-dementia-in-pearl-city.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 8:54 GMT by KITV
      Locales: Hawaii, UNITED STATES

HONOLULU (KITV) - February 8th, 2026 - The search for Robert Kahale, a 65-year-old man with dementia, continues today with expanded ground and aerial efforts concentrated in and around Pearl City. Mr. Kahale was last seen on Saturday, February 7th, near Kamoa Place, and his family and the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) are increasingly concerned for his well-being due to his medical condition and reliance on daily medication.

The initial search, launched Sunday morning, involved a coordinated effort between HPD officers and a rapidly growing number of dedicated volunteers. These volunteers meticulously combed through dense brush areas surrounding Kamoa Place, calling out Mr. Kahale's name and distributing flyers with his photograph and a description of his last known attire: a blue shirt and khaki shorts.

"Every minute is critical," stated Sergeant Keanu Silva of the HPD Missing Persons Unit during a press briefing earlier today. "Mr. Kahale's dementia means he may be disoriented and unable to recognize familiar landmarks or communicate his needs effectively. The fact that he requires daily medication adds another layer of urgency. We are utilizing all available resources to locate him quickly and safely."

Expanding the Search Perimeter & Utilizing New Technologies

Today, the search perimeter has been significantly expanded to encompass a wider area of Pearl City, including nearby parks, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods. HPD has deployed its Air Support Unit, utilizing a helicopter equipped with thermal imaging technology to scan the landscape, particularly during the cooler evening hours, when the temperature difference between a person and their surroundings is more pronounced.

Furthermore, HPD is collaborating with local drone operators experienced in search and rescue operations. These drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and can access areas difficult for ground crews or the helicopter to reach. The footage collected by the drones is being analyzed in real-time by a team of volunteers at the HPD command post.

Community Rallies to Support Search Efforts

The disappearance of Mr. Kahale has deeply affected the Pearl City community. Local businesses have donated food and water for the search volunteers, while residents have organized carpools to transport volunteers to and from the search area. A dedicated Facebook group, "Find Robert Kahale," has quickly gained over 500 members, who are sharing information, coordinating search efforts, and offering emotional support to the family.

"It's incredible to see how everyone has come together," said Maria Alana, a family friend who has been actively involved in the search. "Robert is a beloved member of this community. He's always been there to lend a helping hand, and now we need to return the favor."

Understanding the Challenges of Searching for Individuals with Dementia

Experts in dementia care emphasize the unique challenges presented by searches involving individuals with cognitive impairment. "People with dementia often wander, and they can become easily lost, even in familiar surroundings," explains Dr. Evelyn Chen, a geriatric psychiatrist at the Queen's Medical Center. "They may not remember their address or phone number, and they may not be able to ask for help. It's also important to remember that they may not recognize approaching rescuers if they are disoriented."

Dr. Chen suggests that individuals with dementia should wear identification bracelets or carry cards with their name, contact information, and medical conditions. She also recommends that family members register their loved ones with the Alzheimer's Association Safe Return program, which provides assistance in locating missing individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

The HPD is urging anyone with information regarding Mr. Kahale's whereabouts to immediately contact the department's non-emergency line at 808-529-3111. Even seemingly insignificant details could prove crucial in bringing Mr. Kahale home safely. KITV4 will continue to provide updates on this developing story as they become available.

Resources for Families Affected by Dementia:

• Alzheimer's Association: [ https://www.alz.org/ ]
• Hawaii Dementia Coalition: [ https://hawaiidementiacoalition.org/ ]
• HPD Missing Persons Unit: 808-529-3111

KITV4 Island News is committed to providing you with the best local news and weather coverage. Stay informed and connected with KITV4.com and our KITV app.