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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted on: Monday, April 18, 2005

To avoid tow-away, man rams police car

By Peter Boylan
Advertiser Staff Writer

Police yesterday arrested a 22-year-old man who allegedly rammed a police officer's car repeatedly in Waikiki and jumped into the Ala Wai Canal in an attempt to get away.

The officer was treated for minor injuries and released, said Honolulu Police Department spokesman Capt. Frank Fujii.

The suspect was booked for investigation of attempted first-degree murder.

The incident began at 7:40 a.m. yesterday when a Waikiki patrol officer was flagged down by someone wanting to report a car blocking their driveway.

The officer cited the vehicle and called for a tow truck, police said. While waiting, the officer saw a man jump into the car and drive off.

The man's car hit several cars as he tried to escape, police said.

The officer tried to box the man in, but the driver reversed his car three times into the driver's side of the officer's patrol car, police said. The man drove into the basement of a Waikiki hotel, ditched his car and took off running.

Responding officers gave chase. The man jumped into the canal. Officers arrested him when he swam to shore.

"We think he just got tired," Fujii said.

The injured officer is 27 years old and has 18 months of experience, police said. His name was not disclosed.

Reach Peter Boylan at pboylan@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-8110.