BREAKING NEWS: HPD chief confirms murders of two officers; one is from Guam
By Jacob Nakamura
(Tumon, Guam) Honolulu Police Department Police Chief Susan Ballard, in a news conference today, tearfully confirmed the murders of two brave police officers killed in the line of duty while responding to a report of domestic violence: Tiffany Enriquez and Kaulike Kalama.
Ms. Enriquez originally is from Guam.
Chief Ballard's full statement reads:
I am deeply saddened to report the tragic loss of two of HPD's finest in this senseless and selfish act. On behalf of the men and women of the Honolulu Police Department, our deepest condolences go out to the families of officers Tiffany Enriquez and Kaulike Kalama.
HPD Ohana grieves along with you and share your loss.
Just as a reminder, that this is an ongoing investigation. And this is what we know now.
This morning at 9 a.m., officers responded to a 911 call to a female who said that she needed help. The initial responding officer found the female who had been stabbed in the leg. Two additional officers arrived, and the three were walking down the home's driveway, when the suspect opened fire, Shooting Officer Enriquez, a seven-year veteran assigned to District 6 Waikiki. Two other officers were forced to take cover as more officers arrived to assist.
The suspect fired in to the second group of officers and fatally struck Officer Kalama, a nine year veteran assigned to District 7 East Honolulu. Officers arrived and shortly after saw thick black smoke coming out of the home. Several homes were engulfed in flames and several more have significant damage. First responders are still at the scene, and will likely take days processing the crime scene, including recovery of any remains. At this time, there are three persons who are unaccounted for, including the suspect.
Jeremy Hanel, in his 60s has been identified as the suspect in the killing of the two officers and the stabbing of the female. HPD has opened investigations into two counts of first degree murder, one count of second degree assault, and multiple counts of first degree attempted murder.
Our hearts and prayers go out to their families.
