Kauai residents question police response to murder case, manhunt

News admin July 8, 2026 0 Comments

Kauai residents question police response to murder case, manhunt

KĪLAUEA, Kauaʻi (HawaiiNewsNow) – Residents on Kauaʻi’s north shore demanded answers Monday night about the police department’s handling of a multi-day manhunt for a murder suspect.

William “Billy” Sinclair, 51, was indicted on 28 counts, including murder in the shooting death of Sergio Reyes Hernandez, 37, known as “Tito Reyes,” and attempted murder.

Earlier this month, police said Sinclair allegedly shot and killed Hernandez at a restaurant in Hanalei, then led authorities on a two-day manhunt that ended in the ocean.

Police said he also shot at another person, who was grazed by a bullet.

In Kīlauea Monday, a former co-worker spoke to police through tears.

“Tito was like a brother to me. He was the most amazing man you’ve ever known. He was always there for me and my kids. There’s no bad bone in his body,” said Pancha Cedillo.

“They knew that Billy shot Tito at midnight, 12:30, whatever time. Why did you guys not go to where Billy’s house was at that time? Can you guys answer that for me?” she asked.

Police Chief Rudy Tai acknowledged the community’s frustration and apologized for the trauma surrounding the case.

Tai said an unrelated attempted murder investigation in Waimea pulled officers to the west side shortly before the homicide was reported. He also cited ongoing staffing shortages that affected the department’s ability to quickly deploy resources to Kīlauea.

During the meeting, residents questioned why police did not do more to seize Sinclair’s firearms despite his felony record. Police said there were 24 prior reports involving Sinclair, as well as several temporary restraining order petitions.

Community members also raised concerns about the police investigation into the sudden death of one of Sinclair’s neighbors. Police said there were no signs of foul play, but several residents said they believe the case was mishandled.

Sinclair remains in custody without bail. He has pleaded not guilty, and his jury trial is scheduled to begin in late September.