Shooting Death of Molokai Woman Prompts Murder Investigation

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By Wendy Osher

A 24-year-old woman is dead and a 33-year-old man is in custody following a fatal shooting Wednesday night on Molokai, police said.

According to police, Molokai patrol officers responded to reports of a shooting at an apartment complex in Kaunakakai 9:59 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20.

Upon arrival at the Kawela Barns Apartments on Kamehameha V Highway, police say officers observed the woman to have injuries from a gunshot wound to the chest.

The woman was transported to the Molokai General Hospital in critical condition, where she died of injuries, police said.

Maui Police Lt. Jayson Rego from the Maui Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division issued a report saying witnesses identified the male responsible as the victim’s boyfriend, who allegedly fled the scene in a small Honda compact vehicle heading east on Kamehameha V Highway.

According to police reports, the vehicle was located near the man’s residence in the area known as Honouliwai, East End, where he reportedly surrendered to police without incident.

Police say the man was transported to Molokai Police Station for processing.

Maui Police Lt. Wayne Ibarra with the Department’s Communications Division said the investigation is ongoing with further details pending release. The incident is currently under investigation as second-degree murder.