HPD officers shoot man near Ala Moana Center who allegedly charged at them with knife

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - An investigation is underway after Honolulu police opened fire on a 48-year-old man they say charged at them with a knife.

The man sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was last listed in critical condition.

Meanwhile, a security guard was clipped with a stray bullet and refused transport to a hospital.

The shooting happened about 10:40 Monday night on the mauka side of Ala Moana Center near the corner of Kona and Kona Iki streets.

When officers arrived, interim Police Chief Rade Vanic said, “A male told them that he had been threatened with a knife by another male.”

According to police, the victim pointed out the 48-year-old suspect ― who was walking away from the scene still holding the knife.

“There were people in the area. You know Ala Moana is a busy area,” Vanic said.

“Officers spoke to the male for about one to two minutes and repeatedly ordered him to drop the knife but the suspect refused. The suspect then ran towards the officers with a knife raised in the air.

“Two officers opened fire at the suspect striking him multiple times.

Vanic says the officers were within arm’s reach of the suspect when they fired on the man.

He added “There was a less lethal (weapon) that was in the process of being deployed but the incident unfolded so quickly,”

HPD has not officially released the 48-year-old suspect’s name. Sources say he was shot in the abdomen, pelvis, arm and hand.

A security guard standing about 30 yards away was also hit in the leg by a stray bullet that may have ricocheted. Officials say it didn’t break the skin. The officers involved were not hurt.

“They’re shaken up but they’re doing OK,” said Vanic. “The two officers that discharged their firearms have one and two years of service.”

The suspect has four convictions on his record, including driving under the influence and having liquor in public. A decade ago, he was sentenced to five years behind bars for criminal property damage.

Vanic says the shooting was captured on surveillance camera and the officers’ body cameras.

“Once we determine that it won’t jeopardize our investigation or our ability to properly prosecute this case then we will be releasing it upon request,” he said.

HNN confirmed suspect had to undergo surgery. He remains hospitalized.

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