A neighbor dispute in Waianae, Hawaii, turned deadly when a 58-year-old man used heavy machinery and a handgun to kill three women at a family gathering. The shooter was killed by a resident who was later released from custody, with police unsure of further charges.

WAIANAE, HI (2-minute read) — A tragic and violent incident unfolded in Waianae, Hawaii, leaving three women dead and two others injured after a neighborhood dispute spiraled into a deadly attack and shooting. The Saturday night event occurred in the west Oahu community during a family gathering held in a carport.

According to police, the conflict escalated when a 58-year-old neighbor, known for renting out his property for parties, began ramming cars into the carport using a front-end loader. This destruction quickly escalated when the man opened fire on the group. The terrifying scene ended with the deaths of three women attending the gathering.

A 42-year-old man, who lived at the home where the gathering took place, acted in defense of the group and used a handgun to fatally shoot the neighbor. The resident was subsequently arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder, though he has since been released, with authorities still determining if criminal charges will be pursued.

Reports suggest that the altercation may have begun earlier in the evening, with people at the family gathering expressing concern over reckless driving near the neighborhood—allegedly by individuals renting space from the 58-year-old. It remains unclear whether these frustrations contributed to the neighbor’s deadly attack.

In the aftermath, the Waianae community is mourning the loss of three lives and grappling with the confusion and fear that such an event brings. For now, local authorities are urging patience as the investigation unfolds, leaving the community in search of answers and healing.

Safety Tip: Always ensure your firearms are securely stored when not in use and that you are well-versed in the laws surrounding self-defense in your state. Understanding when it is legally appropriate to use a firearm is crucial for responsible ownership.