Chaos unfolded in the Captain Cook area of Hawai‘i Island on Wednesday, when a series of crimes led to an officer-involved shooting and the arrest of 28-year-old Junson Heckerz. Heckerz, listed on Hawai‘i’s Most Wanted since April, engaged in a crime spree involving auto theft and burglary that commenced early in the morning with a reported traffic collision and a stolen Volkswagen, and unfolded into additional incidents including a failed vehicle theft, trespassing, and a burglary in Captain Cook. Officers were dispatched after receiving reports of Heckerz fleeing in a stolen Utility Task Vehicle, according to a report provided by the Hawaii Police Department.
The pursuit intensified with Heckerz attempting to take more vehicles, burglarizing properties, and ending with him crashing a stolen Cadillac through a homeowner's metal gate this tragic chain of events landing him in police custody. The resident who lost his Volkswagen encountered Heckerz, who then absconded with the resident's UTV compounded the police's urgency to locate the fugitive, and amidst the escalating events, Heckerz at one point rammed the stolen Cadillac through a metal gate, nearly colliding with both police and private vehicles—this action forced an officer to discharge his weapon at the vehicle, as reported the Hawaii Police Department.
Following the chaos, Heckerz was slapped with numerous charges totaling a bail of $293,100, which included three counts of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, first-degree attempted theft, first-degree burglary, second-degree reckless endangering, and other related offenses. Hawai'i County Prosecutor's Office confirmed these charges Thursday morning, ensuring Heckerz remained in custody pending his Court appearance as stated in the Hawaii Police Department press release.
The Hawai‘i Police Department is conducting a routine review after an officer fired their weapon. The officer, who has been with the department for less than two years, is now on administrative leave. HAwaii Police Department are asking anyone who saw the incident or has information about other possible events to come forward. Tips can be shared confidentially through Crime Stoppers, which may also offer rewards.
