HONOLULU (KHON2) — The man responsible for the 2020 murder at the Val Hala Apartment Complex in Hilo has been sentenced to life in prison. Davi Alvarez, a 44-year-old Hilo resident, was arrested in October 2020 and later charged with Murder in the Second Degree for the killing of Noelle Buffett. According to the police report, Alvarez stabbed Buffett on her upper-left chest, resulting in a punctured heart and lacerated lung.
After nearly three years, Alvarez appeared at Hilo Circuit Court and entered a No Contest plea for Buffett’s murder. On Tuesday, he appeared in court once again and was handed a life sentence with the possibility of parole. Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen expressed hope that this sentencing would offer some closure for Buffett’s family, stating, This was for Noelle and her ‘ohana. Although we know that it will not fill the immense void of their loss, we hope that this sentencing offers them some sense of closure.
In addition to the murder conviction, Alvarez was identified as a persistent offender, having previously been convicted of four other felonies. These crimes include assault, terroristic threatening, abuse of family, and escape. Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen emphasized the importance of holding violent offenders accountable to protect the community, stating, Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that Hawaii County law enforcement is committed to working hard to hold violent offenders accountable to protect our community.
The sentencing of Davi Alvarez for the Val Hala Apartment Complex murder serves as a milestone in seeking justice for Noelle Buffett’s tragic death. While the life sentence cannot undo the devastating loss suffered by her family, it offers a form of closure and retribution. The case highlights the commitment of Hawaii County law enforcement to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the community.
As the story concludes, it serves as a reminder of the impact of violent crimes and the responsibility of society to hold offenders accountable for their actions. The outcome of this case underscores the pursuit of justice and the importance of upholding legal and ethical standards in our communities. By sharing these developments, we aim to raise awareness and encourage discussions on crime prevention, victim support, and the role of law enforcement in ensuring public safety.
