BIG STORY — Suspect Arrested After Tense Kīlauea Manhunt

Kīlauea residents spent a nerve-wracking weekend locked on edge after Kaua'i Police began hunting for an armed suspect wanted in connection with a homicide. KPD warned the public the man was considered armed and dangerous, and the North Shore community felt it. People were watching their doors.

Monday morning, police took the suspect into custody. No further details have been released about the victim or circumstances of the homicide, but the arrest brought a collective exhale to the neighborhood.

It's a sobering reminder that even in paradise, hard things happen. Big mahalo to KPD for getting this one wrapped up quickly. Read more at Civil Beat.

WORTH KNOWING

Polihale Is Open Again

After a two-month closure, the access road to Polihale State Park has been cleared and resurfaced. If you've been itching to make the bumpy drive out to one of the most remote and stunning beaches in Hawai'i — now's your chance. Pack water, snacks, and your sense of adventure. Full story here.

AT&T Backed Down on That North Shore Cell Tower North Shore residents pushed back hard on a plan to plant a cell tower less than 50 feet from someone's bedroom window, and it worked. AT&T has officially withdrawn the controversial proposal. Community organizing for the win. Read more.

County Budget Goes Big on Homeless Services Kaua'i County is looking to triple funding for homeless services as part of its nearly $499 million FY2027 budget, following a lower homeless count this year. The budget also bumps up money for mental health, substance abuse programs, and invasive species mitigation. Good signs all around. Details here.

EAT/DRINK/DO

If you're heading to Waimea Canyon this week, stop at Gina's Anykine Grinds first. This women-owned West Side gem on Kaumualii Hwy has been fueling locals and hikers for years with serious plate lunch energy — loco moco( local source Beef), chicken katsu, the Lava Burger, and banana chocolate bread that people literally drive back for. Portions are massive, prices are low, and the vibe is pure Kauai. Open Tuesday through Saturday, breakfast and lunch only. Don't skip the banana bread. Seriously. 9691 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea. 📞 (808) 338-1731.

West Kaua'i has been quietly farming shrimp for decades — and it's still going. The Kaua'i shrimp operation near Kekaha is one of those only-on-this-island things worth knowing about. Next time you see locally-farmed shrimp on a menu, order it. You're supporting island food security one plate at a time. Learn about the farm here.

Come to the Lihue Hongwanji Mission Bon Dance on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. It's free! Location: Lihue Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, across from Kapaia Stitchery. For more information, contact the temple at 808-245-6262 or email [email protected]

ONLY ON KAUA'I

Where else can you spend a weekend worried about a manhunt on the North Shore and then turn around Monday and drive a dirt road through sand dunes to reach one of the most jaw-dropping beaches on the planet? Polihale reopening is peak Kaua'i energy — wild, remote, and worth every pothole. Go before the road closes again. It always does eventually.

FIND YOUR FURRY FRIEND

Aloha! I'm Tiger- a happy, social girl who loves just about everyone I meet- kids, adults, and new friends alike! Whether we're heading to the beach, exploring a trail, or relaxing at an outdoor café, I'm always ready to join in on the fun. I'm great in the car, love being part of the action, and am just as happy splashing in the ocean as I am soaking up all the pets and snuggles. I already know some basic commands like sit and down, and I'm eager to keep learning (especially when treats are involved). I'm still polishing up my leash manners, but I'm easy to redirect and love staying connected with my people. Most of all, I'm a loving, loyal companion who likes to keep my pack close and my tail wagging. If you're looking for a sweet, adventurous best friend, I'd love to be part of your family!

✈️ TRAVEL DEAL OF THE WEEK

Looking to get off-island? Southwest continues to offer discounted Hawaii fares through its Low Fare Calendar, with recent interisland fares appearing around $65 one-way.

Before booking your next trip, compare Southwest and Alaska/Hawaiian prices and be flexible with your travel dates. Midweek departures often have the lowest fares.

Traveling soon? Let us know if you find a great deal and we'll feature it in a future issue of Kauai Wire. Check out link here

🌤️ KAUAʻI WEATHER REPORT

Warm summer weather continues across Kauaʻi this week with highs in the low to mid-80s and lows in the low 70s. Expect passing windward showers, especially during the mornings, with plenty of sunshine elsewhere. No major weather systems are expected, making for great conditions for outdoor work and weekend activities.

🚧 ROADWORK REPORT

Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures this week on several major Kauaʻi roadways.

Areas impacted include:
• Kūhiō Highway (Līhuʻe, Anahola, Kilauea, Princeville, Hanalei)
• Kaumualiʻi Highway (Puhi, Kōloa, ʻŌmaʻo)
• Rice Street in Līhuʻe
• Nawiliwili Road
• Waimea Canyon Drive
• Kapaʻa Bypass Road

Most work is scheduled during weekday daytime hours, with some overnight closures on portions of Kūhiō Highway, Nawiliwili Road, and the Kapaʻa Bypass. Drivers should allow extra travel time and watch for alternating traffic control in active work zones. more info here.

🌺 KAUAI ROOTS

The Menehune Ditch in Waimea is one of the most mysterious and impressive ancient structures on Kauai. Built with precisely fitted cut stones — a technique unlike anything else found in old Hawaii — the ditch was designed to channel water from the Waimea River to irrigate taro fields. Legend says the Menehune, a mythical race of small but incredibly skilled people, built the entire structure in a single night. Archaeologists still aren't sure who really built it or how, which honestly just makes the story better.

That's your Kaua'i Wire for the week. Stay safe, go to Polihale, eat at Ginas. We'll see you next time — a hui hou!