HONOLULU (KHON2) — Officials have issued responses to the fatal shooting on the night of, Aug. 15, of the Maui police officer in Paia.
The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers released a joint statement early on the morning of Aug. 16.
“A Maui police officer put on their police uniform today to start their shift, protecting the lives of the public. That officer did not finish their shift; their life was stolen, cut way too short. Tonight, a family is overcome with grief, a grief that will never totally leave them,” SHOPO President Robert Cavaco and Maui Chapter Chair Nick Krau said. “The hearts of Maui police officers break as a fellow officer, their friend, a friend who does the very same job they do every day, did not go home.”
The statement went on to include a call for unity during a difficult time.
“The 2,700 sworn men and women of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers stand strong beside our brother and sister officers of the Maui Police Department. Too many of us have been here before,” they continued. “Our hearts and our prayers are with our officer’s family; they will forever be part of our SHOPO family, a family that will not let the memory of their loved one fade or their ultimate sacrifice be made in vain.”
The Maui Chief of Police shared their thoughts on the department’s loss.
The Maui Police Department Chief John Pelletier shared a statement, committing to honor the fallen officer’s memory.
“Our department is heartbroken,” Pelletier said. “We have lost one of our finest—an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. She was a hero, and we will ensure she is honored with the reverence she deserves. Our deepest condolences go out to her family, loved ones, and fellow officers during this time of profound loss.”
In a separate statement, the Honolulu Police Department’s Interim Chief Rade Vanic expressed condolences to the Valley Isle.
“It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that we acknowledge the passing of a dedicated member of the Maui Police Department,” Vanic said in part. “On behalf of the Honolulu Police Department, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the officer’s family, loved ones and the entire Maui law enforcement community.”
Vanic then went on to echo calls for unity during a time of grief.
“This loss is felt not only on Maui, but here in Honolulu as well. As members of Hawaiʻi’s law enforcement ʻohana, we stand together in grief and solidarity,” the statement continued. “The fallen officer served with honor, courage and an unwavering commitment to protecting their community. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
The suspect involved in the case was taken into custody. The investigation remains ongoing.