A 25-year-old Hilo man has been indicted by a grand jury in connection with a Feb. 19, 2025, homicide in Hilo.

Read more FEMA reviews Hawaii’s COVID funding after Sylvia Luke indictment

The indictment charges Gilberto D. Escobar with second-degree murder, plus three firearms and ammunition offenses, according to a press release from the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney.

According to police reports, shortly after 5 a.m. on the day of the homicide, police officers responded to a report of a gunshot on Maunakai Street in Hilo.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased male — later determined to be 36-year-old Brandon Castillias — lying face down fronting a residence.

Read more Williams sisters reunion: Serena and Venus will play doubles together at Cincinnati Open

Castillias’ cause of death was a single gunshot wound to his abdomen.

This afternoon, Escobar appeared in Hilo Circuit Court for a return on the indictment warrant and arraignment. The court maintained his bail at $3 million and scheduled a hearing on Aug. 12 to assign defense counsel.

Murder in the second degree carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole.

Read more Warriors Moala finds a home at guard to help solidify O-line