A memorial is growing in Nanakuli for 22-year-old Kashka Otto, who was tragically stabbed to death while working at a local Wendy's. Otto's former teacher, Chris Akana, said, "He was a very, very respectful student," who continued to show warmth and recognition after graduation, according to a report by Island News.
Rep. Darius Kila, representing the area where Otto lived and worked, discussed the tragedy, noting the expectation to go to work, contribute to society, and return home safely—now altered by the events that happened on Sunday. The altercation that led to Otto's death began when he asked 60-year-old Reynaldo Cheney to stop moving furniture in the restaurant, resulting in a fatal argument. Cheney faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder for allegedly stabbing another man who tried to intervene. "We have got to avoid any confrontation, any conflict, you know, because times are different now," advised Samantha DeCorte, chair of the Nanakuli-Maili Neighborhood Board, in a statement obtained by Island News.
Meanwhile, Hawaii News Now shared insights from Kevin Wong of Spike and Serve, a volleyball club where Otto was also a member. Despite his tough exterior, Wong described Otto as possessing a sensitive nature. The suspect, known to live in a tent at Maili Beach Park, had a routine that local campers were familiar with, said a woman who camped near him. She mentioned that Cheney, "He did his own thing on a daily schedule. Always did the same thing. Left in the morning, did his library, whatever he did, done for the day and come back at nighttime" and that no one had seen him since the morning of the incident.
Former Wendy's employee Sophie Tabag recounted Otto's cheerful demeanor, saying, "He was just taking orders, and he would always give a smile when he’s taking people’s money and paying for their food and whatnot. He was really great. He was a great person," in an interview with Hawaii News Now.
