Son testifies father confessed to trying to kill wife on birthday hike

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The son of a Hawaii doctor accused of bashing his wife's head with a rock during a birthday hike testified in his father's attempted murder trial, saying his dad told him he planned on taking his own life after he tried to kill his wife Arielle Konig.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex dynamics of domestic violence and the challenges of repairing relationships after infidelity. It also raises questions about mental health, self-defense claims, and the role of family members in these types of cases.

The details

Emile Konig, 19, said that Gerhardt Konig made the disclosure during a FaceTime call on March 24, 2025, the day authorities say he attacked his wife on the Pali Puka Trail, northeast of Honolulu. Gerhardt Konig allegedly told his son that his wife was cheating on him and that he tried to kill her, saying 'he would not be making it back to Maui and to take good care of the younger kids.' Prosecutors have alleged that Gerhardt Konig pushed his wife toward a cliff, came at her with a syringe, and hit her in the head with a rock. Konig has pleaded not guilty, with his attorney claiming he acted in self-defense.

• On March 24, 2025, Gerhardt Konig allegedly made a FaceTime call to his son Emile Konig and confessed to trying to kill his wife.
• On Arielle Konig's birthday, March 24, 2025, the alleged attack on the Pali Puka Trail took place.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Gerhardt Konig out on bail.