Violent Crime Spree in Volcano: Pomaikai Olson Arrested for First-Degree Robbery

Strategic Insights -

A 31-year-old Naalehu man, Pomaikai Olson, has been arrested for first-degree robbery after a violent crime spree in Volcano on Saturday afternoon, according to the Hawaii County Police Department. The incident began when police dispatch received multiple calls about a reckless driver heading Hilo-bound on Highway 11 within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, driving a stolen white Dodge pickup truck. The suspect was later identified as Olson, who allegedly carjacked a 62-year-old woman's Hummer H3 at gunpoint near Highway 11 and Luna Ikena Road. During the ensuing chase, Olson ran multiple police vehicles off the road, struck several other vehicles, and attempted to flag down passing motorists with a firearm. The suspect was eventually restrained by a 53-year-old man and his 26-year-old nephew, who provided the police with crucial information to apprehend Olson.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pomaikai Olson, 31, has been arrested for first-degree robbery following a violent crime spree in Volcano, Hawaii.
  • The incident began when police received multiple calls about a reckless driver heading Hilo-bound on Highway 11 within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
  • Olson allegedly carjacked a 62-year-old woman's Hummer H3 at gunpoint near Highway 11 and Luna Ikena Road.
  • During the chase, Olson ran multiple police vehicles off the road, struck several other vehicles, and attempted to flag down passing motorists with a firearm.
  • The suspect was eventually restrained by a 53-year-old man and his 26-year-old nephew.
  • Police later determined the weapon Olson was using was an airsoft pistol that closely resembled a real firearm.
  • The stolen Hummer and Dodge pickup trucks were recovered pending execution of search warrants, and detectives will confer with the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney to determine any charges.
  • Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the events or may have been a victim to contact detective Amy Omaya at 808-961-2381 or email amy.omaya@hawaiipolice.gov.

Statistics:

  • 31-year-old Pomaikai Olson has been arrested for first-degree robbery.
  • 4:43 p.m.: Police dispatch received multiple calls about a reckless driver heading Hilo-bound on Highway 11 within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
  • 5:05 p.m.: Pomaikai Olson was taken into custody.
  • 3 vehicles were struck by Olson during the chase.
  • 2 police vehicles were run off the road by Olson.
  • 1 airsoft pistol was recovered by police.
  • Up to $1,000 reward is being offered to tipsters who provide information leading to Olson's arrest and conviction.

Sources:

  • Hawaii County Police Department news release
  • The Honolulu Star-Advertiser article
  • Tribune Content Agency, LLC