Police Beat

Advertiser Staff

Hikers use flash to signal rescuers

WAILUKU, Maui — Two hikers stranded in ‘Iao Valley overnight used the flash on their camera to signal a rescue helicopter early this morning.

The two Wailuku women, sisters aged 36 and 32, began their hike yesterday at 11 a.m. and when they didn’t return at dark, their father called authorities around 8:15 p.m., said Assistant Fire Chief Greg Chong Kee.

The fire department helicopter searched last night without luck, and went out again at first light this morning, he said. Just before 6:30 a.m., the hikers were spotted when they set off their camera flash several times. The helicopter then picked up the two women, who did not require medical attention, Chong Kee said.


Man arrested in identity theft

A 47-year-old man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of collecting welfare payments by using the identity of a man who is dead.

The state Department of Human Services discovered it was issuing checks to the suspect, who police said had filed for welfare benefits using the dead man's Social Security number.

The man was also collecting welfare benefits under his own name. He was arrested on suspicion of third-degree identity theft.