The island of Maui is cloaked in sorrow, its heart heavy with grief, as the Maui Police Department (MPD) mourns the tragic loss of Officer Suzanne O, a beacon of compassion and courage who was killed in the line of duty on Friday, August 15, 2025. Her death, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect, has left an indelible mark on a community that revered her as both a guardian and a friend.
At approximately 8:26 p.m., the night air in Pāʻia was shattered by a call to the Paia Sugar Mill off Baldwin Avenue—a report of terroristic threatening involving an armed individual who had trespassed and fired a weapon. Officer Suzanne O, ever ready to serve, was among the responders who rushed to the scene. In a harrowing confrontation, the suspect discharged a firearm, striking Officer O in the chest. Despite the valiant efforts of her fellow officers, who returned fire and wounded the suspect in the lower body, Suzanne succumbed to her injuries. The suspect, now in custody and receiving medical treatment, remains under investigation as the MPD seeks answers in the wake of this tragedy.
Suzanne O’s journey with the Maui Police Department began in 2020, when she joined as a member of the 91st recruit class, bringing with her a deep-rooted sense of duty shaped by her upbringing in American Samoa. She started her service in the Kihei Patrol District, later transferring to the Wailuku Patrol District in December 2021. A proud member of the MPD Honor Guard, Suzanne was a pillar of reliability, often volunteering during high-demand periods to handle Alternative Calls for Service, even on her days off. Her dedication extended to supporting the Dispatch team, ensuring the department’s operations ran smoothly during critical times.
Her impact was profound, felt not only within the MPD but across the communities she served. Known for her professionalism, courtesy, and tact, Suzanne earned the admiration of residents who saw her as a compassionate protector. Her bravery during the devastating August 8, 2023, wildfires Upcountry earned her the Certificate of Merit, a testament to her unwavering commitment. Colleagues remember her as genuine, honest, and deeply dedicated—a woman who embodied the values of service with every action. In a 2022 MPD recruitment video, Suzanne spoke of her desire to inspire young women from Pacific Island communities, showing them that a career in law enforcement could offer both purpose and pride. “It’s never a bad thing to be courteous to people, and show compassion always,” she said, words that now echo as a guiding light for those she left behind.
Beyond her badge, Suzanne was a devoted family member, cherishing moments spent with her niece and nephews, who were her world. Her love for family grounded her, giving her the strength to face the challenges of her calling. To her, service was not just a job but a way to make a difference, to show others—especially young women from her home in American Samoa—that there was “more to life” through opportunities like hers.
The loss of Officer Suzanne O marks a rare and painful chapter in Maui’s history. She is the first Maui officer to die by gunfire in nearly seven decades, joining a somber roll of eight fallen heroes who gave their lives for the island’s safety. Her sacrifice has drawn heartfelt tributes from leaders across Hawaii. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier, his voice heavy with grief, called her “one of our finest—a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.” Maui Mayor Richard Bissen described her as “a true hero” whose dedication united the community in mourning. Governor Josh Green echoed these sentiments, noting that her death is a “tremendous loss for the state,” a reminder of the daily risks officers face. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) spoke of the profound grief felt by Maui’s law enforcement ‘ohana, pledging to honor Suzanne’s memory and support her family as part of their own.
As Maui grapples with this immeasurable loss, vigils are springing up across the island. Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes pile outside police stations, each a testament to a community united in sorrow and gratitude. Flags will fly at half-staff, a silent tribute to a woman who gave everything for those she served. The MPD has promised to share details of funeral and memorial services once finalized, offering a chance for the community to come together and honor Suzanne’s legacy.
Officer Suzanne O’s watch may have ended, but her light burns on in the hearts of those she touched. Her courage, her compassion, and her unwavering dedication will continue to inspire Maui and beyond. As the island mourns, it also resolves to carry forward the values she lived by—service, respect, and an unyielding commitment to community. In her memory, Maui stands stronger, vowing never to let her sacrifice be forgotten.
