3 charged in
Ewa Beach murder

An Oahu grand jury has indicted three people in connection with the death of a homeless man who was shot in the mouth in Ewa Beach during a failed drug deal.

The grand jury charged Justin K. Luhia, 24, with second-degree murder for allegedly causing the death of Joseph Halbuna intentionally or knowingly on Nov. 19 at Oneula Beach Park, also known as "Hau Bush."

Luhia also was charged with the attempted second-degree murder of Wilfred Ortiz, and allegedly had a firearm in his possession at the time.

Luhia and Alexander Akuna Jr., 28, were identified as van occupants who were trying to buy crystal methamphetamine from people camping at the beach, police said. Akuna allegedly pointed two guns at an acquaintance of Halbuna while Luhia allegedly shot and killed Halbuna, seated in a car, with a shotgun at close range.

Luhia was also charged with two counts of carrying, using or threatening to use a firearm in the commission of a felony, and unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle.

The grand jury indicted Akuna with theft from Darran Larosa and/or Joseph Halbuna while armed with a dangerous instrument.

Chantell Pinero, identified as the van driver, was indicted for first-degree hindering of prosecution of Luhia.