Man Arrested for DUI After Striking Spectator at Maui Marathon

[flashvideo file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G0yoVnqNaU /]

Rustyn Pajimola-Aiu. Photo courtesy Maui Police.

By Wendy Osher

A 22-year-old Kahului man was arrested for driving while under the influence after he drove through a crowd near the start of the Maui Marathon, and struck one of the spectators, police said.

The incident was reported at around 5:05 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014, within the parking lot of the Queen Kaʻahumanu Shopping Center in Kahului.

Maui police say Rustyn Pajimola-Aiu was driving his 2014 Acura four-door sedan within the parking lot and attempted to exit the parking area via the intersection at Onehee Avenue and Wakea Avenue.

According to police reports, there was a large crowd of participants for the start of the marathon at the same location.

Police say Pajimola-Aiu continued to drive through the crowd, and struck a 53-year-old Kahului man, dragging him about 30 feet.  Police say the victim was not a participant in the marathon.

The victim was treated and released by first responders after sustaining what police described as minor injuries.

Police arrested and charged Pajimola-Aiu with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor and for an outstanding bench warrant.

Pajimola-Aiu was being held in lieu of $1,200 bail.