Posted on: Friday, January 18, 2002

Probe of Maui officer's alleged self-shooting complete

By Timothy Hurley
Advertiser Staff Writer

WAILUKU, Maui — The Maui Police Department has finished its criminal investigation into the alleged self-inflicted shooting of patrolman Donald B. Nakooka.

Maui County Prosecutor Richard Bissen said yesterday his office has received the case from police and is reviewing it "to determine what, if any, charges will be filed."

A Maui Police Department internal investigation continues into the Dec. 4 incident in which the 10-year veteran is believed to have faked his own shooting.

At the time, Nakooka told investigators he was wounded by the driver of a sedan he pulled over on Honoapi'ilani Highway in Kapalua. Police launched a massive manhunt that continued for nearly a week before investigators concluded the officer, who was wearing a bulletproof vest, had parked in an isolated area, shot himself in the abdomen then drove to the highway and lay down on the pavement to await passing motorists.

Nakooka, 32, contacted at his Makawao home yesterday, said he couldn't discuss the incident until the investigation is complete. He remains on paid leave.