WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) — The Maui Police Department will host a candlelight vigil on Friday, Aug. 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Wailuku Police Station to honor Officer Suzanne O who was killed in the line of duty.
The public is invited to join the gathering. The department said the vigil will be a time for reflection, healing, and unity.
“Our department is heartbroken,” said Chief Pelletier in an update. “We have lost one of our finest — an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community.”
Officer Suzanne O
Officer O was fatally injured on Aug. 15 while responding to an in-progress terroristic threatening incident at the Paia Sugar Mill. Officers returned fire after the armed suspect discharged a weapon, and the suspect remains in custody.
Despite lifesaving efforts, Officer O did not survive.
“She was a hero, and we will ensure she is honored with the reverence she deserves,” said Chief Pelletier. “Our deepest condolences go out to her family, loved ones and fellow officers during this time of profound loss.”
Her service and legacy
Officer O joined the department in 2020, and she first served in Kihei before transferring to Wailuku in 2021. She was a member of the Honor Guard and volunteered to cover shifts and support dispatch even during her time off.
In 2023, she earned the Certificate of Merit for her work during the Aug. 8 wildfires. Colleagues remembered her as compassionate, genuine and committed to the people of Maui County. Family was her priority, and she treasured time with her niece and nephews.
The department said her sacrifice will not be forgotten and asked the community to keep her family and MPD ʻohana in their thoughts and prayers.
Out of respect for the solemn occasion, filming, recording, or interviews will not be permitted on station grounds. Members of the media may observe from across the street.
Parking will not be available at the station. Public and media parking will be at the War Memorial Stadium lot. Sheriff’s Division officers will staff crosswalks at Kaʻahumanu Avenue and Kanaloa Avenue/Mahalani Street to assist those walking to the vigil.