Suspected Fugitive Arrested Following Crime Spree and Officer-Involved Shooting in Hawaiʻi
Captain Cook, Hawaiʻi – A crime spree that escalated into an officer-involved shooting has led to the arrest of 28-year-old Junson Heckerz in the Captain Cook region. Heckerz, a resident of Ocean View, was apprehended on Wednesday, following a series of alleged offenses that have raised significant concern within the community.
Series of Incidents Draws Police Attention
The chaotic sequence began around 8:30 AM when officers were alerted to a Captain Cook resident searching for his stolen Volkswagen sedan. Upon arrival, officers discovered Heckerz in the vehicle, which was disabled on the roadway. As the victim and Heckerz exited their respective vehicles, Heckerz fled the scene in a utility task vehicle.
Within hours, at approximately 10:11 AM, police received reports of Heckerz attempting to steal a Toyota pickup truck. After confronting the owner, he fled on foot, prompting a community-wide alert. Heckerz’s activities included a trespassing incident that occurred near Anapuka Road, which further heightened the urgency for his capture.
Police Encounter Ends in Shooting
By 1:15 PM, officers responded to an active burglary report where Heckerz was spotted inside a Cadillac belonging to the property owner. When police attempted to approach him, Heckerz allegedly tried to flee by rapidly reversing the vehicle and then accelerating toward an officer. In response to the imminent threat, one officer discharged his firearm—though Heckerz was unharmed in the exchange, and no officers sustained injuries.
Despite the dangerous situation, Heckerz lost control of the vehicle, crashing into a ditch after failing to maneuver through a metal gate. Officers quickly detained him without further incident.
Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings
Heckerz, who has been featured on the local “Hawaiʻi’s Most Wanted” program since April, had three outstanding warrants totaling $7,100 at the time of his arrest. After discussions with the Hawaiʻi County Prosecutor’s Office, Heckerz now faces serious charges, including:
- Three counts of auto theft
- Two counts of first-degree theft
- First-degree burglary
- Unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle
- Second-degree reckless endangerment
- Resisting police orders
Initially set at $293,100, his bail was subsequently reduced to $5,000 during his first court appearance, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for 10 AM on Friday.
Ongoing Investigation
In accordance with department policies, the Hawaiʻi Police Department has initiated a critical incident review, especially regarding the officer who discharged his weapon. This officer, a nearly two-year veteran of the Kona patrol division, has been placed on administrative leave to ensure his wellbeing.
The investigation remains active, and police are urging anyone with information on the incidents to contact their non-emergency line or reach out to Detective Donovan Kohara directly. For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers offers a confidential report service that could provide a reward of up to $1,000.
As details continue to emerge, community members are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.