LIHUE — Three members of the Kauai Police Department were recognized for their valiant service during an award ceremony on Friday, Sept. 27.
Kauai Police Department (KPD) Officer Matthew Kaluahine, Officer Jesse Castro and acting Sergeant Jason Scalzo all took center stage and were recognized as employees of the month by the Kauai Police Commission during the September 2024 meeting.
Officials said that on Saturday, June 22, at approximately 12:45 a.m. KPD officers were dispatched to the North Shore after receiving an automated emergency crash detection report via an iPhone.
The officers arrived at an area near Waikoko Beach in Hanalei with the estimated GPS coordinates shared by the iPhone’s Crash Detection system. The officers discovered a vehicle cliffside in a dangerous pathway lodged between two trees, with the engine still running, positioned directly above a 30-foot drop straight down to the ocean.
The three officers urgently analyzed the situation and devised a plan to secure the vehicle by anchoring tow straps to the patrol truck, which enabled Kaluahine to rappel 30 feet down to the vehicle door where he discovered an unresponsive man inside the vehicle.
Kaluahine immediately secured the vehicle by strapping an additional tow strap to prevent any further movement, while he remained cliffside with the male occupant and waited for the arrival of Kauai Fire Department personnel, who then conducted the extraction.
The training of the officers, combined with their prompt actions and exceptional teamwork, significantly enhanced the effectiveness of the emergency response. Their efforts exemplified heroism and demonstrated their unwavering dedication to public service.
“Although they were uncertain if anyone remained inside the vehicle, these officers did not hesitate,” said KPD Assistant Chief Kalani Ke.
“They swiftly utilized the resources at their disposal, taking decisive action in a situation where every second counted. Their courage and quick thinking were vital in preventing a potential tragedy, and we are incredibly proud to recognize their exemplary service,” Ke said.
The police commission presented the officers with a lei along with a certificate, and recognized their performance and heroic efforts as a statement of the standard the department holds for the community and visitors.
