A 69-year-old Kaunakakai man died after a dog attacked him at a residence on Molokai around noon Tuesday, according to Maui police. Officers were dispatched to a home on Hoomalu Drive and began life-saving measures while waiting for fire and medical crews, but the victim was later pronounced dead. Officials said the dog involved in the incident was euthanized under state law governing dangerous animals. The investigation remains ongoing, and police say there are no signs of foul play at this time.
According to Hawaii News Now, Maui police identified the victim as 69-year-old Sylvester Apiki of Kaunakakai and confirmed the timeline of events. The outlet reported that officers performed life-saving measures until fire and medical personnel arrived, and that the dog was euthanized "in accordance with state law regarding dangerous animals."
What the law allows
The Legislature passed HB2058, now Act 224, in 2024, creating a legal framework for "dangerous dogs" that allows animal-control authorities to impound and, in certain cases, euthanize animals deemed too dangerous for staff to safely care for. The bill text and status are available for review on LegiScan.
Animal services on Molokai
Maui Humane Society holds the county animal services contract for stray dogs on Molokai and provides humane enforcement, temporary sheltering and pet-retention resources, the organization says. The society's Molokai page also notes it currently cannot provide veterinary care or humane euthanasia for owned pets on the island, a limitation that highlights the logistical challenges of responding to serious incidents in remote communities.
Police investigation
Maui police said the investigation remains active and that there were no immediate signs of foul play, per Hawaii News Now. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Molokai Police Station at 110 Ainoa Street in Kaunakakai.
Officials have released only limited details so far, and local agencies say they will provide updates as the inquiry proceeds. This story will be updated as new information becomes available.
