A fatal shooting outside the Target store in Kailua, Hawaii, has resulted in an arrest after a dispute that began during the Kailua Fall Festival spilled into a nearby parking lot.
Police say 30-year-old Thomas Malone was shot and killed on the evening of September 26, 2026, after an argument between two groups continued from the festival to the Target parking area on Hahani Street.
The Honolulu Police Department has since identified a 24-year-old woman as a suspect in the case. Officers located and arrested her shortly before 11 p.m. on September 28, according to the latest police update. She was arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder and firearm offenses, with prosecutors expected to determine the charges to be filed.
What Happened at the Kailua Target?
Honolulu police responded to the Target parking lot shortly after 8:30 p.m. on September 26 following reports of gunfire.
According to investigators, two groups had been involved in an argument at the nearby Kailua Fall Festival. The dispute subsequently moved into the Target parking lot, where a firearm was pulled and Malone was shot.
Emergency responders attempted to assist the victim, but Malone was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office later identified him as Thomas Malone, 30, and determined that his cause of death was a gunshot wound to the neck.
Police Arrest 24-Year-Old Woman
The investigation initially focused on identifying the person responsible for the shooting.
On September 29, the Honolulu Police Department announced that detectives had identified a 24-year-old female suspect. Investigators from the Homicide and Strategic Enforcement Detail worked with the department’s forensic video unit during the investigation.
District 4 Crime Reduction Unit officers subsequently located and apprehended the woman shortly before 11 p.m. on September 28.
Police said she was arrested for second-degree murder and firearm offenses. The department stated that charges will be sought with the Honolulu Department of the Prosecuting Attorney.
An arrest is not a finding of guilt, and the case remains under investigation.
Investigation Began After Festival Dispute
The shooting occurred as hundreds of people were attending the Kailua Fall Festival.
Police said the confrontation began among two groups at the festival before continuing into the nearby Target parking lot. Investigators are working to establish the precise sequence of events that preceded the gunfire.
The Honolulu Police Department has also appealed to members of the public who may have captured photographs or video during the festival or in the surrounding Target parking area.
Officials said even footage that does not appear to show the shooting itself could potentially help investigators reconstruct what happened.
Thomas Malone Identified as Victim
The medical examiner’s identification brought confirmation of the victim’s identity several days after the shooting.
Thomas Malone was 30 years old. His death has prompted attention throughout Kailua as investigators continue working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fatal confrontation.
Police have asked members of the public who knew Malone or witnessed events surrounding the shooting to provide information that could assist the investigation.
Kailua Shooting Investigation Continues
Although an arrest has been made, authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active.
Detectives are continuing to examine available video, photographs, witness information and other evidence connected with the shooting.
Police have also asked anyone with relevant information to contact 911 or CrimeStoppers Honolulu.
The arrest represents a significant development in the investigation, but the legal process is still continuing and prosecutors have not yet announced the final charges that will be pursued.
Kailua Target Shooting: Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Thomas Malone |
| Age | 30 |
| Location | Kailua, Hawaii |
| Shooting location | Target parking lot, Hahani Street |
| Date | September 26, 2026 |
| Approximate time | Shortly after 8:30 p.m. |
| Victim’s cause of death | Gunshot wound to the neck |
| Suspect | 24-year-old woman |
| Arrest date | September 28, 2026 |
| Arrest allegations | Second-degree murder and firearm offenses |
| Current status | Charges being sought; investigation ongoing |
Community Awaits Further Answers
The fatal shooting has raised concerns in Kailua because it occurred near a community festival where families and other residents had gathered.
The investigation is now focused on determining exactly how the dispute escalated, what happened immediately before the shooting and what evidence can establish the circumstances surrounding Malone’s death.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with relevant information, photographs or recordings to come forward.
Latest Update on the Kailua Shooting
The latest Honolulu Police Department update confirms that a 24-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the September 26 fatal shooting of Thomas Malone outside the Kailua Target.
She was arrested for investigation of second-degree murder and firearm offenses, and prosecutors are expected to consider the charges. Police said the investigation remains ongoing.
Disclaimer: This article reports information released by law enforcement and other public sources. An arrest represents an allegation and does not establish guilt. Details may change as investigators continue their work and prosecutors make charging decisions.