Hilo, Hawaii – An unsolved murder case still haunts the community of Hilo, Hawaii, nearly 38 years after the tragic death of Lynn Ebisuzaki, a beloved Sunday school teacher. On the evening of May 1, 1987, Ebisuzaki, aged 26, visited her boyfriend’s home on Kanoelehua Avenue before excusing herself to take a shower. When she did not return, concerned individuals called the police, who discovered her lifeless body on an adjacent vacant lot. Despite efforts to solve the case, Ebisuzaki’s murder remains a cold case, leaving many lingering questions in the hearts of those who knew her.
Ebisuzaki, described by those who knew her as a kind and caring individual, worked as a computer operator and junior accountant at Miko Meats. Her involvement at Kinoole Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school and worked with elementary students in an after-school program, further demonstrated her commitment to her community. Remembered by many for her engaging and friendly nature, Ebisuzaki’s untimely death shocked and saddened those who knew her well.
In the days following Ebisuzaki’s tragic murder, police released composite sketches of a possible suspect seen in the vicinity. Despite ongoing efforts to crack the case, no definitive leads have emerged. Recently, police issued a press release seeking new information from the public, including a new composite sketch of a man reportedly seen arguing with Ebisuzaki at the church before her death. Detective Derek Morimoto, who has been working on the case since 2017, remains committed to unraveling the mystery surrounding Ebisuzaki’s murder.
Despite forensic testing and additional investigations, no concrete breakthroughs have been made in the case. Amon-Wilkins emphasized that DNA testing, a crucial aspect of modern criminal investigations, was not prevalent in 1987. As the case lingers unsolved, the community continues to remember Ebisuzaki and her family. While her parents and siblings have since passed away, their memory lives on within the community, where they were known for their active involvement in church and community activities.
Those with information about the case are encouraged to contact Detective Derek Morimoto or email unsolvedhomicides@hawaiicounty.gov. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers. Despite the passage of time, the quest for justice in Lynn Ebisuzaki’s murder remains unresolved, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew and loved her.