Police search for gunman in fatal Palolo store robbery
Police closed off Kauhana Street at Palolo Avenue Saturday night as they investigated a fatal armed robbery at New Valley Store.
Police are searching for a man suspected of fatally shooting another man during a robbery at the New Valley Store in Palolo Valley on Saturday.
The incident was first reported around 7:25 p.m.
Police initially classified the case as first-degree armed robbery and attempted murder.
The suspect was described as in his 20s, possibly Portuguese, 5 feet 3 inches tall, and 140 pounds with shoulder length black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and black shorts with a handgun tucked into the back of his waistband.
The suspect is believed to have fled west on Waialae Avenue on a metallic green or black moped.
The victim, Remoni Paloga — the spelling could not immediately be confirmed — was transported in critical condition to the Queen’s Medical Center, where he died.
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Neighbors said the victim was a long-time Palolo Valley resident who provided security for the store’s new owners.
“He was a real stand-up guy,” said Junna Kanoe, a childhood friend of the victim. “He’d help anyone who needed help. He kept people safe and he looked out for everybody.”
Kanoe and another friend had been socializing with the victim near the store earlier in the evening. They rushed back as news of the shooting quickly traveled across the Palolo Homes housing complex.
The victim worked for local demolition contractor Titan Industries. Neighbors said the victim would often recruit young men from the neighborhood when there was work available.
“He kept kids off the street,” said Druella Paikai-Hind, who lives across the street from the store and knew the victim well. “He wanted them to be able to do something productive and stay out of trouble.
“He didn’t deserve this,” Paikai-Hind said. “I hope he gets justice.”
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, police cordoned off the side streets around the store. Beyond the barriers, the victim’s nephews and other family members paced back and forth, relaying phone updates from family at the emergency room.
Friends and family reacted with grief and anger as news of the victim’s death was finally conveyed.
