A late-night stop at a Kapolei Taco Bell turned into a crime scene yesterday when a masked gunman opened fire outside the restaurant, hitting two mainland visitors who had rented a gray 2022 Ford Explorer, according to police. Both men were taken to nearby hospitals, and their conditions have not yet been released. Witnesses told officers the shooter fled on foot after the gunfire.
Details From Police
District 8 patrol officers were called out around 9:05 p.m. Sunday after reports of shots fired in front of the Kapolei Taco Bell, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Investigators say the driver, a 40-year-old man, and his 42-year-old passenger were both struck by gunfire and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Police added that the pair had rented a gray 2022 Ford Explorer before the shooting and that no arrests have been made.
Kapolei Has Seen Similar Incidents
The attack is the latest violent episode in West Oʻahu. In February of last year, Honolulu police investigated a suspected drive-by shooting in Kapolei that left three people hospitalized, according to Hawaii News Now, adding to ongoing worries about late-night gun violence in the area.
Suspect Description and Police Plea
Officers described the gunman as a Black male about 5 feet 4 inches tall, wearing all-black clothing and a black ski mask. He ran off on foot in an unknown direction, according to the department.
Investigators are asking anyone with information or video of the incident to contact 911 or call CrimeStoppers at (808) 955-8300, per the Honolulu Police Department. Detectives have not yet released a possible motive or an update on the victims' conditions.
What To Expect Next
Honolulu police say the investigation is active and that officers are following leads in the Kapolei area. Anyone who was in the vicinity of the Taco Bell on Sunday night or has dash-cam or surveillance footage is urged to reach out to authorities.
