MAUI, Hawaii — A violent altercation in a Target parking lot has resulted in the arrest of a 32-year-old man accused of attacking another individual with an aluminum bat. The incident unfolded last Friday evening when the victim was leaving the store with his girlfriend and her young daughter.
Witnesses reported that the confrontation was sudden and alarming. Kiana Bascon, the victim’s girlfriend, recounted that a shirtless stranger emerged from the shadows brandishing a bat. “He was yelling that we killed his dad as he approached us,” Bascon said. In a swift attempt to protect her daughter, she fled toward their vehicle—just as the man launched his attack on her boyfriend.
A witness at the scene described the shocking assault, recalling how the assailant struck the victim multiple times with the bat. “It all happened so quickly. It was like a series of hard blows, one after the other, before he ran off,” the witness explained, choosing to remain anonymous.
Local police later identified the assailant as Gabriel Pangkee. He was apprehended shortly afterward and is currently facing charges of assault and criminal property damage. Records indicate that Pangkee has a substantial criminal history, including previous convictions for burglary.
The victim, who has opted to remain unnamed, sustained significant injuries during the attack, particularly to his head and hands. He may require surgery to address the damage inflicted. With no health insurance to cover the medical costs, he faces significant financial burdens. “It’s going to be a lot of money for the hospital bills and recovery,” Bascon added, expressing concern for her boyfriend’s future ability to work and live normally.
In light of the incident, Bascon is urging Target to take greater responsibility for security measures at their store. “We want them to ensure that this doesn’t happen again, especially on their property,” she emphasized.
A spokesperson for Target expressed sympathy for the victim and acknowledged the company’s commitment to customer safety. “Our thoughts are with the injured guest and their loved ones. We appreciate the swift action of our team members and the first responders,” the spokesperson stated, also confirming that the company is cooperating with law enforcement as they conduct their investigation.
Pangkee is set to appear in court on January 13, facing serious charges that will likely have far-reaching consequences. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violent encounter, calls for increased security and awareness in public spaces are growing louder.