Attempted Escape Thwarted at Hālawa Correctional Facility

Bronson Kekuewa

Corrections officers at the Hālawa Correctional Facility on Oʻahu thwarted an escape attempt this morning by an inmate attempting to climb an inner security fence.

Officials with the state Department of Public Safety say inmate, Bronson Kekuewa allegedly attempted to scale the fence near the recreation field at 8:26 a.m. on Thursday, June 13, 2019.

The fence is located at the top of the facility’s Main Street, the central, outside corridor running up the middle of the facility.

PSD officials say Kekuewa was quickly captured by security staff and taken back inside. He did not get outside the secured perimeter.

A lockdown was ordered, which is normal procedure, and was lifted at 11:36 a.m.

Kekuewa was taken to a nearby hospital emergency room for treatment of lacerations he suffered from the razor wire on the fence.

“The staff’s immediate response to the situation prevented an escape,” said Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda. “I commend them for their quick reaction and a job well done”.

An internal investigation is underway by the Department of Public Safety Internal Affairs Office. State Sheriffs were called for the criminal investigation.

Kekuewa is expected to face an added charge for the attempted escape.  He is serving time for third degree promotion of a dangerous drug and prohibited acts related to drug paraphernalia.