A Maui police officer was shot and killed on Friday during a routine call to investigate an illegal shooting at the old sugar mill in Paia, located on the northern coast of the island of Maui, Hawaii. The incident occurred when officers responded to the call, encountering the suspect who was discharging a rifle. The officer, who has not been identified, was fatally struck in the chest area during the confrontation. The suspect was taken into custody following the incident and is currently in critical condition, having been shot in the lower hip area.
Maui Police Chief John Pelletier addressed the tragedy, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life and highlighting the devastating impact of the incident on the department and the community. He described the officer as a ‘finest of us’ and emphasized the importance of the officer’s service to the community. Pelletier also noted that the incident is a dark day in the history of the Maui Police Department and the community, as it is something that none of them ever expect to happen, although they are prepared for it. The department is currently working through this difficult time and has asked for the community’s patience and support.
Additional information regarding the incident will be shared as it becomes available, and the department is committed to providing the community with updates as they process this tragic event. The Maui Police Department has issued a statement expressing its deep sadness over the officer’s death and its commitment to supporting the officer’s family and loved ones. The department is requesting that the community remain patient as they navigate this difficult time together. The incident has sparked a wave of condolences and support from within the community and across the state of Hawaii, with many expressing their grief and respect for the officer who made the ultimate sacrifice.