Posted on: Tuesday, June 18, 2002

Police quiet about Kaua'i death

By Christie Wilson
Advertiser Neighbor Island Editor

LIHU'E, Kaua'i — Police yesterday refused to release details about their investigation into the death of former Kaua'i sports announcer Walter Robert "Fig" Mitchell.

Mitchell, 60, was found dead in bed at his Kapa'a home June 10. Police earlier said there were injuries on his body, but they have not released the results of an autopsy performed Thursday.

Investigators also have not said whether they believe there is a connection between Mitchell's death and his June 7 report of a burglary at his home in which his wallet was stolen.

Police are asking anyone with information about Mitchell's death to call the Investigative Services Bureau at (808) 241-6763.

Mitchell was a former sports editor of the defunct Kaua'i Times and an announcer at several Kaua'i radio stations.

He was involved in coaching a variety of youth sports, and was known for bestowing colorful nicknames on local athletes while announcing games. At one time he worked at KUAI radio and was the former news and sports director at KQNG.

Mitchell's funeral is planned for Monday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Kapa'a Chapel, with viewing at 9 a.m. and a service at 11 a.m. Among his survivors are three children.