Prosecutors charge responding Kauai police officer who struck accident victim a second time

HANAPEPE, KAUAI (HawaiiNewsNow) - Prosecutors have decided to charge a police officer involved in a deadly pedestrian accident on Kauai earlier this year.

In January 2015, 19-year-old Michael Kocher Jr. was struck by a car while walking along Kaumualii Highway. Responding officer Irvin Magayanes struck the man a second time.

Kocher, of Hanapepe, died at the scene.

Eight months later, the investigation is still underway, and Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry announced that prosecutors were moving forward with charges against Officer Magayanes.

"Our hearts also go out to Officer Magayanes, whose every intention that night was to assist in  an emergency," he said in a statement.  "I am confident that our department conducted a thorough and objective investigation, as we do with all of our cases, regardless of those involved. While we do understand the frustrations relating to the length of traffic fatality investigations, it is essential that no stone be left unturned."

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