SHOPO Statement on Maui Officer Suzanne O

News Release from SHOPO, Aug 29, 2025

Honolulu, HI – Today, funeral services were held for Maui Police Department Officer Suzanne O who was shot and killed by a criminal suspect in the line of duty. She was fatally wounded while searching for a suspect who had already fired multiple gunshots at the caretaker of the old Paia Sugar Mill. SHOPO Vice President Nick Schlapak and SHOPO Maui Chapter Chair each issued the statements below. 

Statement from Nick Schlapak, Vice President, SHOPO

"Today, with heavy hearts, we laid to rest our sister, Maui Police Officer Suzanne O. She lived her life as a protector and died a hero, sacrificing herself for the community she loved and the colleagues she stood beside. Our deepest sympathies are with her family as they endure a grief that will never fade. They are forever part of our SHOPO family, and we will stand beside them, offering our unwavering support today and always.

Officer O's life of service was stolen by a selfish and violent criminal. An attack on a police officer is an attack on our entire community, as police officers are given the trust to enforce our laws and protect the people of our community. We stand strong with the people of Maui, demanding that this criminal be held fully accountable by the law.

In the face of this darkness, the people of Maui and across Hawaii have shown an overwhelming outpouring of support, for which we are profoundly grateful. We will honor Suzanne's memory by continuing to serve with the courage and dedication she embodied every day."

Nick Schlapak, Vice President, SHOPO

Statement from Nick Krau, SHOPO Maui Chapter Chair

“Today's services for Officer Suzanne O were a beautiful farewell, a tribute worthy of a hero. I am deeply proud of the life Suzanne lived and the ultimate sacrifice she made for our community and for every officer who wears the badge. She represented the very best of us.

As we grieved today, I was also reminded of something profound: even in the wake of this tragedy, more than 300 officers continue to stand watch over Maui County. They serve with courage, risking their lives every day to protect our residents and visitors. I am immensely proud of Officer O, and every officer who continues to protect Maui County.  Our entire community should be proud of them too.”

Nick Krau, SHOPO Maui Chapter Chair

Support for the Family of Officer Suzanne O

Anyone wanting to support Officer O’s family to help ease their financial burden can make a donation to the SHOPO Benevolent Fund. One hundred percent of the tax-deductible contribution will go directly to Officer O's family to help them navigate this difficult time. Thank you for keeping Officer O and her family in your thoughts. Donations can be made by clicking this link https://bit.ly/Suzanne-O

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The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) represents over 2,600 police officers in the State of Hawaii. Our officers serve in the Honolulu Police Department, Hawaii County Police Department, Maui County Police Department, and Kaua’i County Police Department.

MN: Live Stream: Procession and memorial honoring fallen Maui Police Officer Suzanne O : Maui Now

MN: Honoring a hero: With heavy hearts, community celebrates the life of Officer Suzanne O

MN: Fallen Maui Officer Suzanne O remembered for her service, love and compassion : Maui Now

HNN: Procession, memorial service honor fallen Maui police officer Suzanne O