A veteran officer with the Maui Police Department was killed late Friday while responding to a reported threat at the historic Paia Sugar Mill.
According to Khon2, authorities say Officer Suzanne O was fatally shot by a trespasser who opened fire after unlawfully entering the old mill site, marking the first line-of-duty death by gunfire in nearly seven decades on the island.
The confrontation happened Friday night, when units responded to a call about an individual making threatening statements on the grounds of the Paia Sugar Mill. Upon arrival, officers encountered an armed suspect who began to shoot at law enforcement almost immediately. Officer Suzanne O was hit during the gunfire and later succumbed to her injuries.
During the exchange, responding officers returned fire and struck the suspect. The individual was taken into custody at the scene and transported for medical attention. As of Saturday, the suspect remained in police custody, and potential charges were pending as the investigation continued. Officer O had been part of the Maui Police Department for five years.
During that time, she was regularly recognized for her commitment to service, professionalism, and compassion. Her colleagues described her as a dedicated public servant who embodied the values of her role and maintained a strong connection with the Maui community.
Veteran Officer Remembered for Her Service and Integrity
Officer O had recently been recognized for her efforts during the Lahaina wildfire response, highlighting her resilience and leadership during times of crisis. Her dedication to serving others left a lasting impression on her department and the people she protected.
“Our department is hurting badly,” said Lt. Nick Crau, Chair of the Maui chapter of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO). He described the impact on the close-knit unit as profound, but emphasized that the tragedy would not break their collective spirit. Lt. Crau also noted the emotional toll on those who knew her, saying, “We’re a smaller department and we’re a smaller community and we do genuinely care about each other and, you know, we live and die for each other.”
Community and Officials Offer Condolences and Support
The news of Officer O’s death quickly reverberated throughout the island. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen issued a statement on Saturday expressing sorrow over the loss and praising the fallen officer as a “true hero” who served with “courage and honor.”
Retired Maj. Kurt Kendro, president of the Hawaii Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, reflected on how the entire state feels the loss when an officer is killed in the line of duty. “Anytime a law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty, everybody takes pause and just feels sad that such a tragedy has to occur,” he said. Kendro underscored the daily risk law enforcement officers face, describing the incident as another grim reminder of how quickly situations can escalate and become fatal.
Investigation Continues as Community Grieves
As of Saturday, police confirmed that all physical evidence had been collected from the scene at the Paia Sugar Mill, and the area had been cleared for further examination. The police department also asked for continued community support as they proceed with their investigation.
Officer O’s final act of bravery has not gone unnoticed among her peers. Lieutenant Crau highlighted her character, stating, “She just had such a big heart, such a beautiful smile, such a happy person, and always willing to help people.” He added that it’s essential for the public not to forget her sacrifice. “She served her community better than anyone could serve their community,” Crau said. “And she died for the community. And please don’t ever forget her.”
Officers Grapple With Risks of the Profession
Those within the department spoke candidly about the everyday dangers officers confront. Crau acknowledged that being a police officer often means protecting a public that may not always show appreciation.
“You’re out there serving, risking your life for people who half the time don’t even like you,” he said. “They don't care about you; they could, you know, they don't like us, but we will be out there risking our lives for them every single day.”
The suspect remains in custody as authorities determine formal charges. Meanwhile, the Maui community continues to come together in mourning, honoring Officer O for her unwavering commitment to service and the ultimate sacrifice she made in the line of duty.
