An afternoon at a Haleiwa business turned frightening on Monday when an unknown man jumped behind the counter, pulled out a silver handgun and took off with a cash box. A second employee who tried to intervene was shoved to the ground and suffered minor injuries. The robbery happened around 4:10 p.m. on Kamehameha Highway, and witnesses told police the suspect ran off on foot before officers got to the scene. Police say no arrests have been made and the investigation is still active.
According to Hawaii News Now, Honolulu police described the suspect as a man about 5 feet 9 inches tall, wearing a blue long-sleeve shirt and khaki pants. Investigators said he went behind the counter, brandished the silver handgun, demanded money, removed a cash box and then ran from the area on foot. Anyone who saw what happened or has information is urged to call 911 or Honolulu CrimeStoppers.
Police description and how to report
Honolulu police are reminding the public not to confront armed suspects and to focus on staying safe, then sharing what they know with investigators. The department is asking witnesses and nearby businesses with security cameras to review their footage and submit anything that might help identify the robber.
The Honolulu Police Department is directing tipsters to call 911 in an emergency or CrimeStoppers at 808-955-8300. HPD has also circulated robbery-prevention advice for residents and merchants. For the department's full safety recommendations, see the Honolulu Police Department release on robbery prevention.
Why local businesses should take note
North Shore shops and eateries that rely on quick cash transactions often operate with limited staff and security, which can make them attractive targets. Officers are encouraging owners and managers to revisit how they handle cash, where they position employees and how well their cameras cover entrances and counters.
Local reporting earlier this spring noted HPD detectives have flagged a recent uptick in robberies across Oahu, and merchants say simple changes such as better lighting, visible cameras and keeping less cash on hand can lower the risk of being hit; see coverage from KHON2.
