KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii (KHON2) — Hawaii Island police are investigating another officer-involved shooting in Kailua-Kona.
On Friday, April 4, Kona patrol officers were diverting traffic around 3 a.m. after a vehicle hit a pole when a vehicle came speeding through.
Police said the officer was placing additional flares on the road when he saw the car speeding toward him.
The officer attempted to get the driver’s attention by using his flashlight and arms to warn him of the hazards ahead.
Officials said the driver continued to disregard the officer’s instructions and drove into the oncoming traffic lane directly at the officer.
“Believing the vehicle would strike him, the officer, in fear for his life, fired at the vehicle at least two times. The vehicle sped past the officer and came to a stop approximately 100 yards beyond the officer’s vehicle,” Big Island Police wrote in a news release.
Police confirmed the driver was not hit by the officer’s bullets but suffered injuries to his head and forearms from the broken glass.
Following the incident, the officer rushed to the driver to render aid before detaining him.
The 21-year-old driver was later arrested for reckless endangering, driving under the influence and other traffic-related offenses. Charges are pending.
Police officials have placed the officer, who has been with the department for just under two years, on administrative leave to ensure he is mentally, emotionally and physically able to return to work.
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Anyone who may have witnessed the incident should report information to the non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.