Hawi Man Charged With Attempted Murder

66-year-old William Tai Seu Wong faces multiple felony charges for alleged assault and shooting of female victim

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a spent bullet casing against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a gritty, investigative aesthetic.A spent bullet casing, a stark reminder of the violence that can occur within intimate relationships.Hawi Today

Hawai'i Island police have arrested and charged 66-year-old William Tai Seu Wong of Hawi with attempted murder, second-degree assault, and first-degree terroristic threatening following a December 2024 incident involving a female victim who was in a dating relationship with Wong. The grand jury indictment alleges that Wong threatened, physically abused, and shot the victim in the left arm and back area.

Why it matters

Domestic violence and gun violence are serious issues in Hawai'i, with the state ranking among the highest in the nation for intimate partner homicides. This case highlights the need for stronger protections and support services for victims of abuse, as well as better enforcement of laws around firearms and violent crimes.

The details

According to police, the investigation stemmed from a December 2024 report made by the female victim, who alleged that Wong had threatened her, physically abused her, and shot her in the left arm and back area with a firearm. On April 8, 2026, Wong was arrested pursuant to a grand jury bench warrant, and his total bail was set at $100,000.

  • The incident was reported to police in December 2024.
  • Wong was arrested on April 8, 2026, pursuant to a grand jury bench warrant.

The players

William Tai Seu Wong

A 66-year-old resident of Hawi, Hawai'i, who has been charged with attempted murder, second-degree assault, and first-degree terroristic threatening following a December 2024 incident involving a female victim.

Carrie Akina

A detective with the Hawai'i Island Police Department who is investigating the case and asking for anyone with information to come forward.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Police ask anyone with information regarding this investigation to contact Detective Carrie Akina at (808) 326-4646, ext. 278 or via email at Carrie.Akina@hawaiipolice.gov.”

— Carrie Akina, Detective

What’s next

Wong is currently being held on $100,000 bail, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and contact Detective Akina.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of domestic violence and gun violence in Hawai'i, and the importance of robust law enforcement, victim support services, and community engagement to address these critical issues.