Hawaii News Now

The Honolulu Police Commission chooses David Lazar as Honolulu’s next police chief. A serial road rage attacker received a seven-year prison sentence today for seriously injuring two women in Kakaako. We find out what caused an HPD officer to crash into a Waikiki McDonald’s overnight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good vibes and good energy. We’re highlighting a local artist performing this weekend, a brand centered around mental health awareness and intentional living, plus a closer look at Hawaiʻi-grown māmaki and the people behind it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The man accused in a violent road rage attack on two woman in Kakaako was sentenced to seven years in prison. State Senator Jarrett Keohokalole officially filed his candidacy to run for U.S. congress. And a visitor from California has died after being air lifted from a cliff side on Kauai's Kalalau Trail. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Details on the sudden resignation of a state cabinet member. What we've learned about how this connects to a corruption investigation. It's been a dangerous couple of weeks on Hawaii Island roads with 8 traffic deaths. The plea from officials to drivers to make sure everyone can get home safely. Not the proudest moment for this Tesla driver. What they were reportedly trying to test when they drove into a lake. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After eight traffic deaths in the past two weeks on the Big Island, Hawaii County police are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert to prevent more deadly crashes. A former lawmaker who has been leading the state Department of Human Services has abruptly stepped down. Plus, a possible carbon monoxide leak at a Waipio coffee shop sent one person to the hospital today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After neighborhood pushback, the city is looking elsewhere for what would have been Oahu’s first cultural facility. We hear from the department’s interim leader after being passed over for a promotion. Plus, Honolulu police say a stolen-car suspect rammed two patrol vehicles while trying to escape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Community support and local perks. We’re looking at job opportunities and how helping this local favorite celebrate their anniversary could score you $50! Plus, how you can help give local keiki a strong start for this school year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economist Paul Brewbaker said Hawaii’s economy will worsen this year as inflation pressures continue to build. On “Spotlight Now,” Brewbaker said Hawaii took a major hit during the pandemic — bigger than many other states — and has not fully returned to its pre-pandemic trajectory. Sherry Menor, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, said running a business is “getting increasingly challenging,” pointing to high costs and ongoing uncertainty that make it difficult for companies to plan ahead. With health care systems facing staffing shortages, leaders with the Academy for Healthcare Innovation (AHI) say short-term certificate programs can help get local residents into stable, in-demand jobs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trump administration announced plans to compensate Trump allies who claim they were mistreated by the Justice Department. It's been more than five years since Radford High graduate Maya Millete disappeared in San Diego, California, and now the murder trial for her estranged husband is underway. And a divisive development project under construction on Kauai's south shore is in financial trouble after pre-selling about $100 million of condo units.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pilot program help mentally ill individuals with or without their cooperation. How many have been taken off the streets and how many have returned. Plus, Maui County strikes a deal to take over a water system in one of its driest regions. What it means for future developments including new housing. And, copyright concerns have local artists fighting for their work. What you need to know to support our home-grown talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maui County has reached a historic deal to take over the Honokohau ditch system. The search is on for the suspected gunman in a Kakaako shooting. Plus, local artists raise copyright concerns after spotting their work on products sold online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Environmental Protection Agency has partially rejected Hawaii’s plan to cut pollution from outdated, oil-burning power plants. A breakthrough in the battle for water rights in West Maui as the county strikes a deal with Maui Land & Pineapple. Plus, three people were killed in a shooting at San Diego’s largest mosque.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support local and save. We’re checking out a special dining deal at a popular pho spot as part of a buy local campaign, plus where to catch an On the Rise artist performing in Waikīkī this weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We'll take you to a ceremony that was held last night to honor law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. Plus, a delegation from the Philippines is taking place in Honolulu to promote economic opportunities. What's next for Hokulea? We'll tell you in this morning as her next voyage has been announced. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renters near UH Manoa say they’re still recovering from March’s Kona Low storm damage, and now their landlord is raising rent. Two kupuna were pronounced dead in separate water emergency incidents. Plus, Kamehameha Highway near Waimea Bay now has new rockfall protection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An overnight disturbance in Kakaako turns violent, leaving one man hospitalized. Health officials warn that vaping may be worsening users' anxiety and depression. Residents in a Pearl City neighborhood are coping with another round of downpours after Friday's heavy rain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii Police Department has launched a murder investigation after a man found badly injured in Hilo later died from his injuries. Two people were killed and four others hurt in a head-on crash on Daniel K. Inouye Highway. The attorney for the alleged monk seal harasser says his client never intended to harm the endangered animal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two people died and four were injured after a head-on crash on Daniel K. Inouye Highway. The Honolulu City Prosecutor says no charges will be filed against the two police officers who shot and killed a man near the Queen's Medical Center last October. The attorney for the alleged monk seal harasser says his client never intended to harm the endangered animal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A First Alert Weather Day is in effect as intense and sudden downpours trigger warnings and watches throughout the state. The defense attorney for the man accused of throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal shares his side of the story. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance pays tribute to a Maui police officer killed in the line of duty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pacific Edge Magazine takes over the HI Now Daily studio to celebrate the talented wahine in our community!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laying out a vision for the future of our state. The issues Hawaii's governor is addressing in a new policy plan to improve our island home. The finalists for HPD chief lay out their cases directly to the public. Why do each of the 3 candidates say he is the man for the job. Casey Lund is living his best life here on Sunrise. Why he jumped out of a plane to show his aloha to the Oahu's North Shore community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A forum allows the public to speak with the finalists for the new Honolulu Police Department chief. A Kahului man dies after crashing his car into the back of a school bus. A new court sketch shows the Maui tourist accused of throwing a rock at a monk seal as he appears in federal court in Washington state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HI Now Daily celebrates the best things about living in Hawaii.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Come hungry. We’re checking out bold new burgers, shakes and comfort food specials in Hawaiʻi Kai, plus a local bagel shop building community one sandwich at a time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than two months after devastating Kona lows, Molokai residents are still waiting for major repairs. The Washington man accused of harassing a Hawaiian monk seal on Maui appears in federal court. A Kailua-Kona man is indicted on charges following a drug bust.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal agents yesterday arrested a man suspected of hurling a rock at a monk seal in Hawaii last week. Vice President JD Vance is calling out Hawaii, saying officials need to prosecute fraud in the state-run Medicaid program. And new numbers on fatal drug overdoses show record highs in one category, and a surprise dip in another. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A life-changing program in Hilo is shutting down due to federal budget cuts. Casey Lund is live on the impacts this will have on the community. The search for Honolulu's next chief of police is nearing an end. We continue our deep dive into the candidates hoping to lead the department. Taking you out live to Kilauea where the lava has been flowing this morning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fatal drug overdoses in Hawaii hit new highs in one category in 2025, while another saw a significant decrease, according to a new report. Meanwhile, during the second Kona Low storm, a Molokai resident recalled waking up early in the morning to floodwaters rushing beneath her post-and-pier home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Washington visitor caught on camera throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal was arrested by federal agents and charged. How construction on a bridge in Kailua is causing significant delays for drivers. Plus, President Trump prepares for a high-stakes summit with the Chinese president.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump has arrived in China for a high-stakes meeting with President Xi Jinping. It's been 64 days since the Kona Lows began impacting Hawaii, and for many the suffering continues. And we have an update from our "Aloha for Hawaii" fundraising effort; so far, we've raised over $450 thousand and counting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A cut in funds could force dozens back on the streets. Why some state programs are in danger of closing. Graduation gridlock. This is the season when traffic picks up during commencement events. Details on the efforts to help with the congestion. We're taking a look at the best destinations for the season. And spoiler warning, maybe a stay-cation is in order. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The man accused of fatally shooting a pregnant woman in Chinatown four years ago was acquitted. State programs to keep sick or injured homeless people out of hospitals are in danger of closing after lawmakers cut their funding. Plus, the newly crowned national champions return back home from California. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii News Now is dedicating May 12 to raising money for ongoing relief efforts with ALOHA for HAWAIʻI. The live fundraising effort — in collaboration with hospitality industry leaders and partners — features community voices, artists, nonprofit partners, prize giveaways and more. Call (808) 273-0222 to donate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gov. Josh Green discusses the legislative session, including the late cut to Oʻahu medical respite centers and the Honolulu police chief search. Hawaii State Department of Education superintendent Keith Hayashi details $175 million in storm damage, school closures and ongoing repairs. Aloha United Way CEO Michelle Bartell explains how 211, disaster case management and direct cash assistance are helping families recover after the kona low storms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii News Now is partnering with the community for the "Aloha for Hawaii" fundraiser, a telethon to raise money for those impacted by the recent Kona Low storms that flooded much of the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Hawaii News Now is launching a major fundraising effort to help impacted communities rebuild. Casey Lund will be live on the North Shore with more on this. Plus, a retired assistant chief makes his pitch to lead the Honolulu Police Department, and the push for electric seaplanes in Hawaii faces skeptics at the State Capitol.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii Island police have launched a negligent homicide investigation after a Waimea man was hit and killed while changing a tire on the roadside. A late Maui police officer is being honored in Washington, D.C., as the nation recognizes law enforcement officers this week. The Rainbow Warriors beat UC Irvine to win the national volleyball championship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh poke, live theater and career opportunities. We’re checking out a local poke catering business, previewing a Tony Award-winning comedy at Mānoa Valley Theatre and highlighting IT job openings with the City and County of Honolulu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rainbow Warriors are national champions again after UH beat UC Irvine for the third title in program history. State leaders broke ground on the Wahiawa Dam Improvement Project. Plus, health officials are trying to calm fears of a pandemic after Americans from a hantavirus-affected cruise ship arrived at a quarantine center in Nebraska.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are warning you about an apparent scam involving fake Hawaiian Airlines assistance. Plus, a tourism campaign now has more money. How the funds will help support the community. And, it is Bike to Work Week. Casey Lund will be live this morning to tell us all about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Search efforts are expected to continue off West Maui after a man went missing near Kaanapali Beach. State and federal officials are expanding in-person recovery assistance for Maui County residents impacted by the recent Kona Low storms. Plus, why another North Shore business is closing its doors..See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coast Guard and partner agencies are searching for a missing 75-year-old man who was last seen snorkeling off west Maui coats. A federal criminal investigation opens up after a video of a man throwing a rock toward an engendered Hawaiian monk seal went viral. A Honolulu gran jury indited the auto theft suspect who was captured while trying to flee from officer in McCully. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii taxpayers will fund payouts of more than $1 million to two Hawaii men imprisoned for crimes they did not commit, marking the first time a 2016 wrongful conviction compensation law has been used in the state. Meanwhile, a pilot program placing police officers on Oahu school campuses is several months in, with education officials saying early feedback is helping shape whether it continues or expands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State lawmakers adjourned their annual session with several crucial votes, including one on the future of University of Hawaii Athletics. A 32-year-old woman becomes the third traffic fatality this week on Hawaii Island. A brazen attack on a Hawaiian monk seal leads to a federal investigation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mother’s Day, graduation season and supporting local. We’re checking out celebration specials at Brug’s newest Kapolei location, highlighting Small Business Month in Hawaiʻi and sharing a Mother’s Day skincare giveaway for HI Now Daily viewers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Russia and Ukraine agree to President Donald Trump's request for a three-day ceasefire and an exchange of prisoners. A 19-year-old man accused of assaulting a police officer while trying to flee in a stolen car is indicted on nine charges. Two people are arrested in connection with an illegal gambling room in Chinatown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maui County's mayor speaks out after a visitor threw a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal in Lahaina. Honolulu Skyline riders are avoiding traffic but face a shortage of parking spaces near a rail station. With Mother's Day coming soon, local florists prepare for the rush.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The parents of a two-year-old boy who died while under someone else’s supervision during a camping trip last year are speaking publicly for the first time, hoping to get answers. Plus, Skyline’s growing popularity is creating a parking problem in Kapolei.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A public memorial on Thursday honored the life and service of longtime Hawaii politician and attorney Colleen Hanabusa. Meanwhile, Zavier Cummings, known for his comedy online, was out on the Kapa’a bike path earlier this week when he stumbled upon something that was no laughing matter: syringes in the sand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mother’s Day plans and local finds. We’re checking out brunch and dinner specials at a Waikīkī favorite, plus what to shop at the upcoming Puʻuhonua Mākeke featuring Hawaiian language and culture-inspired products for keiki and families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.