Gunman targets Kaua'i police

By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser KauaÎi Bureau

LIHU'E, Kaua'i — A police officer subdued a man armed with a rifle outside the main police station yesterday after the man threatened to shoot the first officer he saw.

A single rifle shot was fired as the two men hit the ground, and the bullet smashed into the base of a concrete wall in the main Lihu'e police station. No one was injured.

Police and witnesses said Gerald Silva, 45, of Kalaheo, Kaua'i, arrived at the station shortly after noon carrying a loaded .22-caliber rifle concealed in a coat, saying he planned to shoot a police officer — any police officer. He then pointed the rifle at two officers, one of whom ducked into an office.

Officer Randolph Chong Tim, who had been in the office, stepped out with his service revolver drawn but saw civilians in his line of fire behind Silva, and he moved to the side to ensure they would not be in danger.

There was contact between Chong Tim and Silva, and both men fell to the ground. Police Chief George Freitas said it was not clear whether Chong Tim initiated the contact, but understood that Silva's rifle was pointed at Chong Tim.

Freitas said Silva was not hurt in the arrest but was to be taken to Wilcox Hospital yesterday afternoon for treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

"What we don't have is any kind of a motive," Freitas said, particularly since Silva did not appear to be seeking out any particular officer.

The gunman apparently was not wanted for any crime and was not well known to police.