MAUI, Hawaii — A violent confrontation in a Target parking lot last week has resulted in the arrest of a 32-year-old man accused of assaulting another man with an aluminum bat. The incident raises concerns about public safety and security measures at retail locations.
The attack occurred on a Friday evening around 8 p.m. as the victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, was leaving the store with his girlfriend, Kiana Bascon, and her young daughter. Bascon described the assailant as a shirtless man who approached them while shouting accusations regarding the death of his father.
In a panic, Bascon rushed to her vehicle to ensure her daughter’s safety while the suspect, identified as Gabriel Pangkee, directed his aggression toward her boyfriend. A bystander witnessing the assault reported seeing Pangkee repeatedly strike the victim with the bat. “It was over in just a few moments,” the witness said. “It was really shocking how quickly it escalated.”
Responding officers later apprehended Pangkee, who is now facing multiple charges, including assault and criminal property damage. This arrest marks another chapter in his history of legal troubles, with court records revealing nine previous convictions, including a felony burglary conviction from 2018.
The victim sustained significant injuries, including damage to his head and hands, which will require surgical intervention. His girlfriend expressed concern about the financial burden of medical bills, highlighting the pressing issue of healthcare access. “He needs his hands for both work and daily life,” she said, emphasizing the impact of the injuries.
Bascon is now calling on Target to enhance security measures at their locations, arguing that the store should be held accountable for the safety of its customers. “This incident happened on their property, and they need to take responsibility,” she asserted.
In response, a spokesperson for Target reiterated the company’s commitment to the safety of its customers and team members. “Our thoughts are with the guest who was harmed in this incident and his family,” the spokesperson stated. They confirmed that the store is cooperating with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
Pangkee is scheduled to appear in court on January 13 to face the charges against him, as the local community grapples with the implications of this violent event and its potential impact on security practices within public spaces.