Two Hilo police officers are recovering from gunshot wounds in Hilo Hospital following a shooting incident Wednesday at 7:44 p.m., when police responded to a report of several gunshots heard in the area of Kilauea Avenue near the Wailoa River in Hilo.
Two Hilo police officers are recovering from gunshot wounds in Hilo Hospital following a shooting incident Wednesday at 7:44 p.m., when police responded to a report of several gunshots heard in the area of Kilauea Avenue near the Wailoa River in Hilo.
At approximately 8:52 p.m., while checking parked vehicles in the area of the 1200 block of Kilauea Avenue, officers observed a man hiding under a parked vehicle. Upon approaching him, both officers were fired upon and sustained gunshot injures. One of the officers was able to return fire. The suspect was able to flee the area on foot and it is unknown at this time whether he sustained any injury as a result of the shooting.
An extensive manhunt is underway for the suspect, described as a local male approximately 30-40 years old, 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-8, 160 pounds with short dark hair, a light beard and numerous tattoos. The suspect was last seen wearing dark pants, dark shoes and no shirt.
The officers are identified as a 40-year old 14-year veteran and a 31-year-old four-year veteran of the Hawaiʻi Police Department. Both officers were shot in their lower extremities. They were transported to the Hilo Medical Center and underwent surgery. Both officers are currently listed in stable condition.
Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section are continuing the investigation. Due to the investigation, the makai side lane of Kilauea Avenue south of Aupuni Street will be temporarily closed to traffic.
Police ask that anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have information on the identity of the suspect call Detective Grant Todd at 961-2385 or email him at gtodd@co.hawaii.hi.us.