HONOLULU — Honolulu Police Department Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan provided updates on two officers who were critically injured in recent traffic incidents. 

“This last week has been a rough one for HPD and our community,” he said at a Tuesday press conference. 

What You Need To Know

  • HPD Chief Logan provided updates on two critically injured officers

  • One officer, who was hit by a suspect during a traffic stop, is now recovering at home

  • A second officer, who was pinned between two vehicles while directing traffic in the Harano Tunnels, remains hospitalized 

  • Logan also mentioned the hit-and-run death of Sara Yara in a plea for the public to be more mindful of traffic safety 

“Last Thursday, one of our officers was struck on the head with a heavy metal object before the suspect stole the officer’s car and drove off. Other officers were able to locate and follow the suspect until the vehicle was stopped and the driver was arrested.” 

Logan said the injured officer has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home. 

In the second incident, which happened just before midnight on Sunday, an officer who was directing traffic because of an accident in the Harano Tunnels on the H3 was hit by a car and pinned between vehicles. 

“The officer remains hospitalized with extensive injuries, and the investigation is ongoing,” Logan said.

“His path to recovery will be a long one, and we continue to support both the officers and their families during this difficult time.”

Logan was asked about the Move Over Law, which was passed in 2012. The law stipulates that when an officer is pulled to the side of the road, drivers should move one lane over “to create a buffer zone between traffic and the officer,” he said. If there’s no available lane, drivers should slow down to an appropriate speed to allow for the officers’ (and any other people's) safety. 

The chief also made a plea for the public to be more vigilant regarding traffic safety. He acknowledged the hit-and-run death of McKinley High School student Sara Yara on Feb. 15. 

“A family lost its 16-year-old daughter when she was killed while crossing the street to go to school,” he said. 

The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Mitchel Yoshiji Miyashiro, initially fled the scene. The truck he was driving was recovered, abandoned a few blocks away. Miyashiro later turned himself in and was arrested on several charges, including first-degree homicide. He was later released pending further investigation. 

“Those still in shock and grief have reached out to HPD and others. They want her death to be a sobering reminder of the frailty of life, and how all of us have a shared responsibility in keeping Oahu’s roads safe,” Logan said. 

“Along with Sara’s family, HPD is asking everyone to look out for each other, whether you’re operating a motor vehicle, a moped, riding a bicycle, or crossing the street. Focus on what you’re doing and avoid distractions.

“Drivers, please slow down and allow extra time to get where you’re going. Moped operators and bicycles, please follow the laws and watch out for vehicles. For pedestrians, use crosswalks when you can and try to make eye contact with drivers. 

Logan said that HPD investigators have responded to 10 traffic fatalities and 12 critical incidents since Jan. 1. 

“Let’s try to keep this number down and get everyone home safely,” he said. 

Lianne Bidal Thompson is the digital producer for Spectrum News Hawaii. She writes about community and general news.