Leads on Humvee Stolen from Maui National Guard Armory Point to Shave Ice Impostor Scheme

In the ongoing investigation into the whereabouts of a Humvee stolen from a National Guard Armory on Maui, authorities have whittled clues down to a single top lead: shave ice.

That is, police believe the thieves have cleverly disguised the armored vehicle as a vegetation-covered, mobile shave ice stand.

“Initially we suspected that it was painted white or gray to look like a Tacoma, Tundra, or Tacundra, or orange to meld with all the rubber safety cones everywhere," said Sgt. Joe McGillicuddy, a detective with Maui Police Department and part of the team looking for the stolen Humvee.

“But in the past week we have received multiple reports of a suspicious temporary and mobile shave ice stand. These reports come from different locations, including Hana Olowalu, and Makena. The descriptions, about a big vehicle covered in lots of green leaves with a shave ice sign on front, are consistent.”

Joanna Irvin of Haiku was among the locals who reported the mysterious shave ice shack to authorities.

“First of all, what kind of food truck or shack covers itself in leaves?” she asked. “And that sign? I mean, $7.50 for shave ice? What, are we in the 1990s?”

The Maui Police Department seeks the public's assistance in the investigation of the theft, which occurred at Armory north of Kihei sometime between 6 p.m. Feb. 27 and 5:30 a.m. Feb. 28.

Be on the lookout for the M1165A1 type Humvee, described as camouflaged in color, with E-09 painted on the front bumper.

Anyone with information is urged to contact MPD at (808) 244-6400.

To remain anonymous but still help, please call Maui Crime Stoppers at (808) 242-6966.

Meanwhile over at the National Guard Armory near Kihei, reservists continued to mourn their favorite armored vehicle.

“We miss ol’ Betsy very much and hope for her swift and safe return,” said Cpl. Devin Wood.