Maui Police Officer Suzanne O was killed while responding to a call Friday night at the Paia Sugar Mill. Photos courtesy MPD

The Maui Police Department has identified the officer who was fatally wounded while responding to a call Friday night as Suzanne O, who was known among her colleagues for her courage, honor and dedication.

According to the police department, Officer O was wounded as she was responding to a terroristic threatening call at approximately 8:26 p.m. Friday at the Paia Sugar Mill.

Police said the caller reported an unknown person had trespassed on the property and fired a weapon at them. Police said the responding officers encountered the armed suspect, who fired on the officers and shot Officer O. Police then returned fire and shot the suspect in the lower body.

The suspect was taken into custody and given medical treatment. On Saturday, police said the suspect remains in custody as the investigation is ongoing.

According to the department, Officer O began her service with the Maui Police Department in 2020, first working in the Kihei Patrol District before moving to the Wailuku Patrol District in December 2021.

She also was a member of the Honor Guard and often volunteered at the busiest times for the department, including stepping in to help with calls for service on her days off and outside of her regular shifts.

Officer O also supported the dispatch team during her off time, and she was praised in the community for her professionalism, courtesy and tact.

She was awarded the Certificate of Merit for her work Upcountry during the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires.

In her free time, Officer O enjoyed being with her niece and nephews, and her family was her top priority.

“Our department is heartbroken,” Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said. “We have lost one of our finest — an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. She was a hero, and we will ensure she is honored with the reverence she deserves. Our deepest condolences go out to her family, loved ones, and fellow officers during this time of profound loss.”

For those who wish to show their support to her family and loved ones, the department says funeral and memorial service arrangements will be shared once finalized.