Honolulu

Zablan Beach Shooting Upgraded to Second-Degree Murder After Teen Victim Declared Brain Dead

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Published on September 09, 2025
Zablan Beach Shooting Upgraded to Second-Degree Murder After Teen Victim Declared Brain DeadSource: Wikipedia/Kat Wilcox, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

An update from the Honolulu Police Department reports that a shooting that took place at Zablan Beach in Nānākuli has now been reclassified as a second-degree murder case. The victim, a 17-year-old male who was previously in critical condition, was declared brain dead yesterday at 11:59 AM. Following this tragic development, charges against the 19-year-old suspect, originally arrested for attempted murder, have been elevated.

The incident occurred early in the morning, around 2:30 a.m., drawing an immediate response from District 8 officers to the gunfire reports. The initial investigation led to the recovery of a white four-door Toyota Camry and a gray four-door Toyota Corolla, both linked to the shooting. According to Hoodline's earlier reporting, the second victim made his way independently to the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center for treatment.

In the aftermath of the shooting, the Honolulu Police Department quickly brought the 19-year-old suspect into custody. "At 6:30 PM, the 19-year-old suspect was charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree. Bail was set at $500,000," stated the official update provided by the Honolulu Police Department's social media page. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, now faces graver charges as the case evolves.

The investigation into the Zablan Beach shooting remains active, with the Honolulu Police continuing to pursue leads and additional suspects. They encourage anyone with information related to the incident to step forward with the assurance that tips can be provided anonymously. Informants have options to contact CrimeStoppers at (808) 955-8300, use the P3 Tips app or provide their information directly to any police station.