LIHUE >> A police office is facing a negligent homicide charge after hitting a pedestrian while responding to the scene of an accident.

The Garden Island reports that Kauai Police Officer Irvin Magayanes was arrested Thursday and released after posting a $1,000 bail. He has been on the Kauai police force for more than two years.

In January, a driver struck Hanapepe 19-year-old Michael Kocher Jr. as he walked on Kaumualii Highway after sunset. He was then run over by Magayanes.

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry called the event “tragic” in a written statement Friday. He said Magayanes’ only intention was to assist in an emergency.

If convicted, Magayanes could face up to five years in prison. He is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 25.