UPDATE: Maui Man Questioned in Death of Uncle

Charleston Koko.

By Wendy Osher

(Update: November 30, 2012)

A man wanted by police for questioning in the death of his uncle voluntarily showed up at the Wailuku Police Station this morning.

Police say Charleston Koko, 27, was questioned and released. He was named as a suspect following the death of his 52-year-old uncle early Thursday morning.

Police say the two men were involved in a verbal and physical altercation near the area known as  “Wailuku River Mouth.”

According to police reports, the victim did not have any outward observable injuries that could reveal the cause of his death.

An autopsy is scheduled, and a manslaughter investigation is underway.

(Posted: November 29, 2012)

Maui police are investigating the death of a man at a homeless encampment near the area known as “Wailuku River Mouth” early this morning.

Police say they are looking for Charleston Koko, 27, a suspect that is wanted for questioning in the death of his uncle.

Police were called to the scene at the end of Kaae Road at around 2:25 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 29, 2012, to respond to a report of four males fighting.

Upon arrival, police say they located a 52-year-old local male who was found to be unresponsive within his tent.

Authorities initiated CPR before transporting the victim to the Maui Memorial Medical Center where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Police say an initial investigation revealed that the victim was involved in verbal argument that became physical with his nephew, identified as Charleston Koko, who resides in another tent at that location.

According to police reports, Koko allegedly threw the victim to the ground and mounted him, before being separated by other family members.

Police say Koko then allegedly fled the scene on foot prior to police arrival, at which time authorities say the victim proceeded back into his tent and collapsed. The victim did not have any outward observable injuries that could reveal the cause of his death.

As a result of the incident, police have launched a manslaughter investigation. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the victim’s exact cause of death.

Koko is described as 5-feet-6-inches tall, weighing 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Police say Koko is homeless and unemployed.

Anyone with information is asked to call Maui police.