Honolulu, Hawaii – Honolulu police are searching for two men accused of robbing a convenience store employee at gunpoint in the Ala Moana area during the early afternoon hours. Authorities say the suspects threatened a worker with firearms before fleeing the scene in a vehicle with unknown license plates.
Incident Overview
The robbery occurred at approximately 12:55 p.m. at a convenience store located at 1530 Makaloa Street, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Police say two men entered the store and confronted a 32-year-old employee, demanding money and additional property.
No injuries were reported, but the incident has raised concerns about public safety due to the use of firearms in a busy commercial area.
Timeline of Events
According to investigators, the suspects entered the store shortly before 1 p.m. Witnesses told police that the men immediately confronted the employee near the counter. One suspect allegedly brandished a handgun while demanding cash.
Moments later, the second suspect reportedly revealed his own firearm as the robbery continued. After taking money and additional property, the suspects exited the store and fled the area in a vehicle.
Police say the suspects drove away in a gray-colored sedan with unknown license plates and headed in an unknown direction.
Details From Police
In a statement released by HPD, officers confirmed that one suspect directly threatened the employee with a firearm.
“The suspect pulled a black handgun on the employee and demanded money,” police said.
Authorities also described how the second suspect participated in the robbery.
“The suspect lifted his sweater to reveal a handgun tucked into his waistband while assisting in the robbery,” HPD stated.
Police are continuing to review witness statements and any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
Suspect Descriptions and Key Facts
Police provided detailed descriptions of both suspects to assist the public:
- Suspect 1: Described as a Polynesian male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing about 300 pounds. He was wearing a red T-shirt and khaki pants and was seen holding a black handgun.
- Suspect 2: Described as approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing about 150 pounds. He was wearing a black sweater over a red shirt and black pants and had a handgun tucked into his waistband.
Additional key facts include:
- Time of robbery: 12:55 p.m.
- Location: 1530 Makaloa St., Honolulu
- Victim: 32-year-old store employee
- Weapon involved: Handguns
- Getaway vehicle: Gray sedan, license plate unknown
Additional Context on Public Safety
Daytime robberies involving firearms are particularly concerning for law enforcement, as they pose a risk not only to employees but also to customers and bystanders. Ala Moana is a high-traffic area with nearby retail stores, offices, and residences, making quick police response and public awareness critical.
HPD urges business owners to ensure surveillance cameras are functioning and encourages employees to prioritize personal safety during robberies by complying with suspects’ demands.
Public safety officials also remind residents to remain alert in commercial areas and to report suspicious behavior promptly.
How the Public Can Help
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the robbery, seen the suspects, or noticed the gray sedan in the area around the time of the incident to come forward. Tips can be reported anonymously through CrimeStoppers or directly to emergency services.
Conclusion
The Honolulu Police Department continues to investigate the gunpoint robbery and is actively searching for the two suspects involved. Authorities say public assistance could play a key role in identifying the men and preventing further incidents.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact 911 or CrimeStoppers at (808) 955-8300. Share your experiences in the comments below.
