Christopher Mailani Dawson, a Native Hawaiian defense contractor currently under federal investigation has died by suicide, The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports.
The Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office told Honolulu Civil Beat that Dawson, 62, was found dead on Thursday.
Dawson was the founder of DAWSON, which per Spectrum Local News, described itself as “a Native Hawaiian global business enterprise serving the U.S. Department of Defense and other Federal Government clients.” He was also a board chairman of the Hawaiian Native Corp, a subsidiary of DAWSON.
According to the Honolulu Civil Beat, Dawson was under federal investigation for alleged financial crimes like wire fraud and money laundering. He had resigned from his position on the board of Hawaiian Native Corp because of the investigation.
Dawson’s family issued a statement to Spectrum Local News:
“We are deeply saddened to share that our Beloved Son, Brother, Father, and Grandfather, Christopher Mailani Ho‘oka‘amomi Dawson has unexpectedly passed away of unknown causes. Despite recent media reports to the contrary, we have spoken with the Medical Examiner’s office, who advised us that they are looking at additional evidence. Their position is that the investigation is still ongoing. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy as we mourn this profound loss and take time to heal. We are grateful for your understanding, prayers and support. The family is not taking any media calls at this time.”
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