Police in pursuit of man who might be alleged cop killer

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Police roadblock on Napoopoo Road in Kona.
JUSTIN JOHN WAIKI
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UPDATE 7:08 p.m.: From Hawaii Police Department — police activity in the area of Honaunau School. Avoid area. Residents are advised to lock their doors. Report suspicious activity.

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Police confirmed early this evening they’re pursuing a vehicle they think is carrying a fugitive sought for allegedly shooting and killing a Puna patrol officer Tuesday evening.

The pursuit of a man believed to be Justin Joshua Waiki was picked up by Kona patrol. At last report, officers sighted the vehicle on Napoopoo Road and were checking from Middle Keei, Keala O Keawe and Painted Church roads, all in Captain Cook.

A roadblock was established on Napoopoo Road, and there were unconfirmed reports of shots being fired.

Police say they stopped the 33-year-old Waiki, who was wanted on an arrest warrant at about 9:47 p.m. Tuesday at the side of Highway 11 in Mountain View. Waiki allegedly got out of the car and shot Officer Bronson K. Kaliloa in the neck and leg.

Two officers returned fire but apparently missed the shooter, who reportedly escaped into a nearby wooded area and evaded capture.

The 46-year-old Kaliloa, a 10-year police veteran, died about three hours later at Hilo Medical Center.