Update/arrest made: Ongoing police investigation in Haʻikū accompanied by air, drone and K9 units

On Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, the Maui Police Department arrested and charged Jacob Rohrer, 26, of Haʻikū, with Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle, second degree Assault, second degree Escape, and first degree Resisting an Order to Stop a Motor Vehicle.

Rohrer escaped from a court-ordered medical facility placement on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. Shortly thereafter, he reportedly stole an idling vehicle from the area of 55 Maui Lani Parkway in Wailuku while an 83-year-old woman was being assisted into the vehicle. As a result of the incident, the female sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by medical personnel.

Patrol officers later attempted to conduct a traffic stop; however, Rohrer failed to comply and fled, traveling toward the Hāliʻimaile area.

On Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, officers located the stolen vehicle unattended at a residence in Haʻikū. The following day, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, officers returned to the area after receiving information that Rohrer was in the vicinity. At that time, multiple Maui Police Department resources were deployed, including department drones, the MPD K9 Unit, and the department’s helicopter, Hekili.

Specific details regarding the search were not released at the time to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation and ensure officer safety, according to police. “In today’s environment—where information can be rapidly shared through cell phones, social media, and informal communication networks—officer and community safety remain a top priority,” police said.

“Had there been a known threat to public safety, the community would have been promptly notified. The Maui Police Department thanks the community for its understanding and cooperation throughout this investigation,” police said in an updated press release.

Update:

The Maui Police Department issued an update on Monday evening regarding an ongoing investigation in Haʻikū, but released little new information.

The department issued a statement extending gratitude to the public for their patience and understanding.

“While we acknowledge that limited information may be frustrating, some details must be withheld to maintain the integrity of the investigation and ensure officer safety,” police said.

“If there had been any threat to public safety, the community would have been promptly notified. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support as the investigation proceeds,” according to the update.

Maui Now was alerted to the situation at around 11 a.m. on Jan. 19, 2026 when residents observed a police helicopter hovering over the Kauhikoa Road area for an extended period of time.

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The Maui Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation in the Haʻikū area with the assistance of department-issued drones, the MPD K9 unit, and the police helicopter, Hekili. These resources are being utilized to support search and investigative efforts from both the ground and air.

Area residents say they observed the department helicopter hovering for extended periods at around 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

Nearby residents are asked to remain vigilant and cooperate with any lawful instructions provided by officers.

Department spokesperson Alana Pico said, “The department extends its gratitude to the community for their patience, understanding, and cooperation.”

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.