KAHULUI, Hawaii — A violent incident in a shopping center parking lot left one man seriously injured and raised concerns about public safety. The attack occurred last Friday evening as a couple and their five-year-old daughter were leaving a Target store.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was assaulted by a stranger wielding an aluminum bat. Kiana Bascon, the victim’s girlfriend, described the scene as chaotic. As they left the store, the assailant approached them, visibly agitated and shirtless, hurling accusations that they had killed his father. In a bid to protect her daughter, Bascon hurried to their vehicle, only to witness the attacker turn on her boyfriend.
A bystander provided an account of the attack, stating that the assailant unleashed a series of rapid blows with the bat, striking the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene. The witness noted the swift and brutal nature of the assault, which left everyone in the vicinity alarmed.
Authorities apprehended 32-year-old Gabriel Pangkee shortly after the attack. He faces several charges, including three counts of assault and criminal property damage. Pangkee has a lengthy criminal history, including a felony burglary conviction from 2018. He has been ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation, and it has been determined that he is fit to stand trial. His next court appearance is scheduled for January 13.
The victim sustained significant injuries, particularly to his head and hands, requiring surgical intervention. Lacking health insurance, he faces substantial medical costs for treatment and recovery. Bascon voiced concerns over their financial strain, emphasizing that her boyfriend’s ability to earn a living depends on his recovery.
In light of the incident, Bascon is urging Target to implement enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of shoppers. She believes the store has some responsibility for the violence that erupted on its property. Calls for accountability have emerged, with community members expressing unease over safety in local shopping areas.
Despite repeated inquiries, Target has not responded to requests for a statement regarding the incident or its security protocols. As this story unfolds, the community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of what happened in their neighborhood.