Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on August 8, 2025, Honolulu police responded to an assault in the Chinatown neighborhood after witnesses reported a man had been doused with an unknown liquid. The 30-year-old victim suffered severe burns to his face and upper body and was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Detectives say the suspect fled the scene and the investigation remains active.
Chinatown Acid Attack Leaves Victim in Critical Condition #honolulupd pic.twitter.com/PYaraZrj88
— Honolulu Police (@honolulupolice) August 9, 2025
Suspect Description and Investigation
District 1 patrol officers were called to the area shortly after 10 p.m., and witnesses told investigators the suspect approached the man while he was crossing the street and threw an unidentified liquid in his face. Emergency Medical Services transported the victim to a nearby hospital in critical condition, and the Honolulu Fire Department later identified the material as sulfuric acid, according to Honolulu Police Department. Police released a description of the suspect — an approximately 6-foot-tall male wearing a blue fitted shirt and a dew rag, carrying a red bottle and a camera — and asked anyone with information to contact investigators.
Recent Pattern Of Corrosive Attacks On Oahu
Corrosive-liquid assaults have recurred on Oahu in recent years, raising public safety concerns across the island. A Jan. 23, 2024 attack near Ala Moana Center left a woman critically injured, as reported by Hawaii News Now. Authorities also investigated a 2023 acid attack in Mililani that led to indictments and wide coverage, per AP News.
Local Response And Safety
Chinatown business and community leaders have pushed for more patrols and upgraded surveillance after a string of violent incidents, and the city has installed modern cameras and signage across the district in recent years, according to the Office of the Mayor. Advocates say improved monitoring can aid investigations and deter attacks, but they also caution that community outreach and resources for vulnerable residents remain critical.
Investigators continue to follow leads. Anyone with information, video or photos is asked to call 911, contact CrimeStoppers at (808) 955-8300 or submit tips through the P3 Tips app; police urge the public not to approach the suspect.
