Felony Assault on Two Officers in Honolulu Following Knife Incident Near Piikoi and S. King Streets
HONOLULU, HI — June 5, 2025 — A chaotic and violent confrontation unfolded in the heart of Honolulu on Thursday evening, resulting in felony assault charges against a 25-year-old man who attacked two responding police officers near the intersection of Piikoi Street and South King Street.
At approximately 6:00 PM, officers with the Honolulu Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a man behaving erratically in a heavily trafficked area near the Ala Moana neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers encountered the suspect, who was visibly agitated and armed with a knife. Witnesses report the man appeared to be yelling incoherently and darting in and out of traffic, posing a danger to both himself and the public.
As officers attempted to engage with the suspect and de-escalate the situation, he became combative. While trying to flee across the roadway, the suspect suddenly turned and physically assaulted two officers in what police are calling an unprovoked and violent outburst. The nature of the assault has not yet been publicly detailed, but sources indicate the injuries sustained were serious enough to require immediate medical attention.
The suspect was subdued and arrested on scene. He now faces two felony charges of Assault Against a Law Enforcement Officer in the First Degree, a serious offense under Hawaii law. These charges reflect the heightened penalties for assaulting officers acting in the line of duty.
Both officers were transported to a nearby hospital where they were treated for their injuries. While no official updates have been provided on their condition, authorities say they are expected to recover.
The Honolulu Police Department has launched a full investigation into the incident. Authorities are working to determine the suspect’s identity, background, and possible motives. It remains unclear whether drugs, mental health issues, or other contributing factors played a role in the altercation.
Residents and businesses in the area were temporarily advised to avoid the scene during the response, and traffic was diverted while the situation was brought under control. Multiple eyewitnesses are cooperating with the investigation.
HPD officials expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation and emphasized the risks officers face daily in the line of duty.
“This incident highlights the dangers our officers confront while protecting the community,” an HPD spokesperson said in a statement. “We are relieved our officers are safe and are receiving the care they need.”
The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues. Further details, including his identity and any additional charges, are expected to be released in the coming days.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have additional information is urged to contact the Honolulu Police Department.