Hawaii Man Accused of Killing Girlfriend, Stabbing Ex-Wife on Furlough

John Nihipali Sr. charged with murder, attempted murder after alleged crimes while out of prison on work release

Mar. 10, 2026 at 3:39pm

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A Hawaii man out on a work furlough is accused of killing his girlfriend, stealing her car, and then stabbing his estranged wife. John Nihipali Sr. is charged with second-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, and other crimes related to the alleged incidents on March 5 in Honolulu.

Why it matters

The case highlights concerns about the use of work furlough programs and the potential risks of releasing inmates, even temporarily, before the completion of their sentences. It also raises questions about domestic violence and the need for stronger protections for victims.

The details

According to police, Nihipali entered the home of his estranged wife, 53, and stabbed her before his son intervened, allowing the victim to run and call for help. Later that day, police found Nihipali's 53-year-old girlfriend unresponsive in her Honolulu apartment, and authorities believe Nihipali fatally stabbed her before taking her vehicle to his estranged wife's home.

  • On March 5, Nihipali allegedly stabbed his estranged wife.
  • Also on March 5, police found Nihipali's girlfriend unresponsive in her Honolulu apartment.

The players

John Nihipali Sr.

A Hawaii man charged with second-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, and other crimes related to the alleged killing of his girlfriend and stabbing of his estranged wife while out on a work furlough.

Nihipali's estranged wife

A 53-year-old woman who was allegedly stabbed by Nihipali in her home, before being able to run and call for help.

Nihipali's son

The man who intervened during the alleged stabbing of Nihipali's estranged wife, allowing her to escape and call for help.

Nihipali's girlfriend

A 53-year-old woman who was found unresponsive in her Honolulu apartment, and authorities believe was fatally stabbed by Nihipali.

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What they’re saying

“The victim's family was able to identify the boyfriend as the same male who entered her apartment with her a little after 10:30 a.m., and he was later observed leaving the apartment alone a little after 2:45 p.m.”

— Honolulu Police Department (people.com)

What’s next

Nihipali is being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 15 for a preliminary hearing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and safeguards in work furlough programs, as well as the ongoing challenge of addressing domestic violence and protecting victims, even when perpetrators are under court-ordered supervision.