KAHULUI, Hawaii — A man with a lengthy criminal record was arrested after allegedly attacking another man with an aluminum bat in a parking lot outside a local store. The incident occurred Friday evening as the victim, who prefers to remain unnamed, was leaving a Target with his girlfriend and her young daughter.
According to Kiana Bascon, the victim’s girlfriend, the confrontation began as they walked to their vehicle. A stranger, described as shirtless and agitated, accused the couple of harming someone close to him, brandishing the bat while advancing toward them. In a panicked moment, Bascon rushed to ensure her daughter’s safety, unaware that the assailant would soon turn on her partner.
A nearby bystander witnessed the brutal assault. “I saw him take a white metal bat and just start delivering hard blows,” recounted the witness, who wished to remain anonymous. “It all happened so quickly; one moment he was striking him, and the next he dashed away.”
Authorities responded promptly, arresting 32-year-old Gabriel Pangkee. He faces several charges, including three counts of assault and habitual property crime. Pangkee, who has a history of convictions that includes a felony burglary from 2018, is scheduled to appear in court again on January 13.
Injuries sustained by the victim were severe, with trauma to his head and extensive damage to his hands as he defended himself against the blows. He is now required to travel to Oahu for necessary surgery, which presents a financial burden, especially since he currently lacks health insurance.
“It’s going to be incredibly costly with all the medical expenses and recovery ahead,” Bascon said, expressing concern for her partner’s well-being. “He needs his hands for work and everyday life.”
Bascon has called for increased security measures at the store, citing a significant lack of safety for customers. “It’s crucial for Target to take action to help with the medical bills because this incident occurred on their property,” she stated, emphasizing the need for corporate accountability. Despite multiple requests, representatives from Target have not commented on the incident or the concerns raised by the victims.
The violent outburst has sparked discussions among local residents about safety in public spaces and the need for better protection for shoppers.