Chantston Pila Kekawa dies in fatal Makaha shooting
Chantston Pila Kekawa dies in fatal Makaha shooting
Fatal Makaha shooting death of Chantston Pila Kekawa – Obituary
A 17-year-old from Maili, Chantston Pila Kekawa, is being charged as an adult for the fatal shooting of Makaha rancher Cranston Pia in February. The shooting incident, which took place on February 17, has led to Kekawa facing severe legal consequences, including the possibility of a life sentence.
Kekawa, who is currently held at a juvenile detention center with a $1 million bail, is set to be transferred to Oahu Community Correctional Center when he turns 18 next month if he cannot post bail. His defense attorney, Victor Bakke, is contesting the decision to try Kekawa as an adult, citing his lack of a prior criminal record and his age.
The shooting occurred when Pia, armed with a rifle, confronted a group of hunters trespassing on his ranch. Kekawa allegedly fired a fatal shot at Pia, who had been trying to address the disturbance caused by the hunters and their dogs. Bakke claims the shooting was in self-defense, asserting that Pia had fired at the hunters and their dogs before the fatal shot was returned.
The judge’s decision to proceed with adult charges reflects the gravity of the crime and its impact, as Pia’s mother witnessed the incident. In addition to second-degree murder, Kekawa faces charges of firearm possession, terroristic threats, and theft for taking Pia’s rifle.
Local ranchers, including Bobbie-Jo Griffith, are supportive of the decision to prosecute Kekawa as an adult, despite their mixed feelings about his young age. Griffith, whose ranch is adjacent to the shooting site, noted increased security measures and frustration over the ongoing issues with trespassing hunters.
Kekawa’s attorney is hopeful for a plea deal with the prosecutors, but if convicted, Kekawa could face a life sentence with the potential for parole, or a lesser sentence if found guilty of a lesser felony charge.
Chantston Pila Kekawa dies in fatal Makaha shooting Fatal Makaha shooting death of Chantston Pila Kekawa – Obituary A 17-year-old from Maili, Chantston Pila Kekawa, is being charged as an adult for the fatal shooting of Makaha rancher Cranston Pia in February. The shooting incident, which took place on February 17, has led to Kekawa…
Chantston Pila Kekawa dies in fatal Makaha shooting Fatal Makaha shooting death of Chantston Pila Kekawa – Obituary A 17-year-old from Maili, Chantston Pila Kekawa, is being charged as an adult for the fatal shooting of Makaha rancher Cranston Pia in February. The shooting incident, which took place on February 17, has led to Kekawa…