On March 18, 2025, a 17-year-old mother, Lilinoe Kaili, and her one-year-old son, Ocean Kaili, were found safe after a Maile Amber Alert was issued for their disappearance on the previous day. The Maui Police Department (MPD) activated the alert following concerns about the duo's safety.
The search for Kaili and her son began after they were last seen on March 17, 2025, around 10 a.m. at their residence on Pahilikoa Street in Kula, Maui. This decision to issue the Amber Alert came as the police had lost contact with Kaili, who was believed to be upset due to a family disagreement regarding the care of Ocean. Reports indicated that she left home in a silver Toyota 4Runner, taking multiple bags with her.
The alert was officially issued on March 18 at 9:49 a.m. in response to growing safety concerns. By approximately 11:15 a.m., an update from the MPD confirmed that both Lilinoe and Ocean were located in good health on Hawaii Island. The completion of this situation was a result of swift action and community vigilance.
Authorities expressed gratitude for the public's response during the search. "The Maui Police Department thanks its media partners, the community and the Hawaiʻi Police Department for their assistance," the MPD stated, highlighting the collaborative efforts that helped ensure the safe return of the missing pair.
Prior to being found, Kaili was reportedly unsettled about her son's care, which prompted her to leave. Officials noted this was a concerning factor as they believed her actions could put both her and her child in potential danger. Efforts to reach her by phone had been unsuccessful, which heightened the urgency for public help.
As a reminder, the Maile Amber Alert system is designed to alert the public in quick response situations when a child is believed to be in imminent danger. On this occasion, the community’s involvement was pivotal, illustrating the importance of alertness and cooperation in missing children's cases.
The incident concluded successfully with the duo safe, but it serves as a critical reminder of the complexities surrounding parental disputes and child safety. Local authorities encourage families experiencing disagreements to seek peaceful resolutions and leverage community resources.
This event reiterates the importance of the Amber Alert system and community engagement in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals. When communities come together, they can avert potential tragedies and provide support for families in distress.
