PAIA – A Maui police officer died following a shooting in Paia Friday.
It happened on Baldwin Avenue near Heritage Hall.
Maui Police Chief John Pelletier told Hawaii News Now officers responded to an illegal shooting call in the area of the old sugar mill when they encountered an individual who was firing what police believe to be a rifle.
“Our officer suffered a round in her chest area. Officers returned fire. The subject was shot in the lower hip area and is in custody,” Pelletier said.
Pelletier said the department will conduct “a thorough investigation, not just because of the murder of our officer, but we have an officer-involved shooting as well.”
Police said around 8:30 p.m., a caller reported that an unknown individual had trespassed onto the property and fired a weapon at them.
Officers said upon arrival, they encountered the armed suspect, who discharged a firearm, striking one of the responding officers. Officers returned fire, striking the suspect in the lower body. The suspect was taken into custody and is receiving medical treatment.
Despite lifesaving efforts the officer tragically succumbed to her injuries.
Her name is being withheld at this time to allow for notification of next of kin.
Police shut down Baldwin Avenue to investigate the scene.
They also held a procession to transport the officer’s body to the morgue.
Pelletier called the officer a true hero of the community and the profession.
“She was the finest of us, and we are grateful for her,” he said. “This is an absolute tragedy. This is a dark day in the history of the Maui Police Department and our community.”
“It’s something that none of us ever expect will happen, although we prepare for it, and it’s just absolutely horrible,” he said.
The Maui Police Department asks for the community’s support, understanding, and respect as they grieve this immeasurable loss.
Police shut down Baldwin Avenue to investigate the scene.(Hawaii News Now)
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