HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is still searching for suspects in a shooting that happened at Kalo Place Mini Park Wednesday night.
EMS responded to the incident on Kalo Place at approximately 8:20 p.m. A 29-year-old man was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound to the lower backside and lacerations to his head, per HPD. The victim was transported to a hospital in serious condition.
“There’s people with mental health issues, drug-related issues. Some of the homeless carry weapons that the police have warned us about, and there’s been some harassment,” stated Grace Kiyozuka, a worker in the area.
According to HPD’s crime map larceny, assault, vehicle break-ins, and burglary were among the most reported crimes in the area within the past week. Business owners and community members say they believe overall crime has increased and hope to see changes.
“You kind of think that it’d be a little bit better area,” said Valeria Delamora, a Moiliili resident. “You got dorms right here and a lot of college kids around, so you don’t really expect that kind of crime right next to a college campus.”
Some businesses said more expenses go into adding extra security like building fences and installing cameras. Shop owners still want more to be done to keep the area safe.
“There’s not enough lighting, so adding more lights in this area would definitely help,” stated Alan So, another worker in the area. “Maybe like stricter laws on these kinds of crimes.”
The attempted homicide investigation remains ongoing.
“Everywhere on Oahu, it’s been getting pretty bad. I’m not too sure what can be done, but hopefully, something is done soon,” said Delamora.