Caught by DNA: Police Link Suspect to Crossbow Attack, Injuring Woman in Hawaiian Beach Parking Lot through DNA Found on Arrow

DNA evidence from an arrow shaft led the police to a suspect accused of injuring a woman with a crossbow in a beach parking lot in Hawaii last month. 

Gimmy Palafox Ventura, aged 32, faced second-degree assault charges after the incident on Sept. 6 at the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area's parking lot, according to a news release by the Hawaii Police Department. 

Responding to the scene at 7:30 that evening, South Kohala patrol officers encountered the 31-year-old victim who reported being shot as she returned to her vehicle after sunset at the northern end of the main parking lot. Initially mistaking the sound for a gunshot, she soon realized she had sustained a significant cut and was bleeding from her left bicep, as per police statements.

Departing promptly in her vehicle, she sought medical assistance and alerted the authorities. 

Located near Kawaihae and Akulani Road, officers discovered an arrow embedded in the driver's side rear quarter panel of her vehicle. According to the police's news release, the arrow's length and type were consistent with those intended for crossbow use. 

Through DNA analysis of the arrow recovered from the victim's vehicle, the authorities swiftly identified Ventura as a person of interest.

In subsequent investigations, detectives executed search warrants at Ventura's residence and his 2023 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck located at the 4500 block of Ohia Street in Honoka’a. The search yielded two arrows in Ventura's bedroom, along with a crossbow, six arrows, and arrow tips and fletching from his truck. 

Ventura's bail was set at $2,000, and he was released under supervision with strict orders to avoid contact with the victim and the beach where the incident transpired. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for Nov. 2, as confirmed by online court records.

The motive behind the attack and the nature of any relationship between the suspect and the victim remain unclear. As of Saturday, there was no immediate response from Ventura's public defender to a request for comment from Law&Crime.

Police Connect Suspect to Crossbow Attack Injuring Woman in Hawaiian Beach Parking Lot through Arrow DNA 

[SOURCE]

Eager to snag some free stuff? Numerous free opportunities beckon, inviting you to participate and claim complimentary items. No need to open your wallet – entering is absolutely free. Click here now for your opportunity to win something you've been coveting