Officer honored for heroic crash response — with no hesitation — that saved child’s life

Kaua‘i Police Department honored Officer Joseph Himongala as January Employee of the Month, presenting him with the Life Saving Medal during the Jan. 23 Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting.

Himongala received the distinction for his heroic response during a life-threatening traffic crash just a couple of days before Christmas 2025.

A single-vehicle crash just before Christmas on Dec. 23, 2025, on Kūhiō Highway caused a child to be ejected from the vehicle, sustaining critical injuries.

Himongala — off duty and on his way home at the time — arrived first at the scene and demonstrated calm, decisive leadership during a life-threatening situation.

He immediately assessed the child’s condition, without hesitation, and rendered lifesaving first aid with skill and composure. Himongala also provided reassurance while caring for the young crash victim, keeping the child calm and conscious until medical personnel arrived.

His swift response directly contributed to saving the child’s life and exemplifies the criteria for the Life Saving Medal, an honor awarded to Kaua‘i Police Department employees whose immediate actions directly protect human life.

This is also Himongala’s second time receiving the Life Saving Medal during his career with Kaua‘i Police Department.

“Officer Himongala’s actions during this incident reflect years of specialized training and dedicated service,” said a release from the police department about his honors.

He served as a field training officer prior to joining the Traffic Safety Section, mentoring new recruits. Himongala continues to train department personnel, now in traffic control, speed enforcement, standardized field sobriety testing and impaired driving investigations.

The traffic crash reconstructionist and drug recognition expert regularly handles complex crash investigations. He also is a member of Kaua‘i Police Department’s Crisis Negotiator Team.

“These roles have honed his ability to manage critical situations with precision and calm,” the department release said.

Kaua‘i Police Department Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki said in the release that Himongala stepped in at a moment when mere seconds mattered.

“That day, he was exactly where he was needed most, and we are so grateful for his outstanding service to our community,” Ozaki added. “His ability to deliver compassionate, lifesaving care under unimaginable pressure is a testament to his character and expertise.”