The three-day manhunt for Justin Waiki is over. It culminated in a violent shootout that left Waiki dead and Sgt. Bryan Tina with a non-fatal gunshot wound.
Tina was taken to Hilo Medical Center in stable condition.
Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim visited Sgt. Tina in the hospital.
“A lot of his family was there. Everybody was in a very good mood there. He made a crack, where is the party? Everybody was very relieved Sgt. Tina is in good condition,” said Kim.
Tina was a member of Special Response Team (SRT) that found Waiki while conducting a vehicle search in South Point on Hawaii island yesterday afternoon.
According to Kim, there is a sense of closure now that Waiki is no longer out there.
“He has been caught and he met his punishment… It’s a tremendous feeling of relief,” said Kim.
The community continues to mourn the senseless murder of officer Bronson Kaliloa. Police say Waiki shot and killed Kaliloa Tuesday evening on Highway 11.
Kim described Kaliloa as a genuine and kind hearted human being.
“He’s one of those officers that you know really cared about everybody… the hole that was dug by his death was a senseless one. Violence is senseless to me. This is so tragic,” said Kim.
Memorial services have been set for Officer Bronson Kaliloa Saturday, August 4, at the Hilo Civic Auditorium in Hilo. The public is invited.
Kaliloa is survived by his wife and three young children.
