Severely hurt Big Isle
girl breaks coma

A 10-year-old Big Island girl, believed to be the victim of severe child abuse, has come out of a coma after six weeks at Kapiolani Medical Center, said Derick Dahilig, spokesman for the Department of Human Services.

The girl, known as Alexis, is starting to respond to her surroundings but remains in critical condition, Dahilig said yesterday.

She is in the care of the Department of Human Services in a status called temporary foster custody, Dahilig said. He declined further comment on the case.

Alexis was removed on Feb. 7 from the home where she was staying in the Big Island's Puna district, after her caretaker called 911 and told authorities the girl needed medical attention.

Doctors at Hilo Hospital contacted police, who began an investigation.

A police affidavit written to support a search warrant at the caretaker's house said the girl had bedsores, apparent burn marks, and signs that she had been tied up. A paramedic said part of her upper lip was missing.