A vacation at a luxury Maui resort turned violent when a family from California reported being targeted in an alleged "anti-white" attack. The incident, which occurred around 10 p.m. on July 17 at the Kaanapali Alii resort, left at least six members of the family requiring medical attention, including one who sustained a head wound necessitating 13 staples.
The family, whose names have not been released, told police they were assaulted by a group of young people. According to Joseph Headfield, a family member, the confrontation began with racial threats from a woman identified as the group's ringleader. He stated she declared, "We're going to beat up your boys tonight. We're going to beat up the haole boys."
"Haole" is a Hawaiian term often used to describe non-Native Hawaiian or Polynesian people, typically white individuals or outsiders. Headfield also alleged that the group used patio furniture as weapons during the assault.
Maui Police Department confirmed they responded to a disturbance involving approximately 30 people near the resort's pool. By the time officers arrived, about 10 to 15 individuals remained, several with visible injuries. Police have arrested a 20-year-old man on suspicion of assault, but he was later released as the investigation continues.
The Maui Police Department has not classified the incident as a hate crime but stated that detectives are gathering and reviewing information. A spokesperson for the department said they are committed to a thorough and impartial investigation.
The Kaanapali Alii resort, a luxury condominium rental property, is cooperating with the investigation. A representative for the resort's management stated that the safety and well-being of guests and staff are a top priority and that they are supporting those affected by the incident.
Family members claim that the confrontation was the culmination of escalating tensions that began earlier near Whalers Village, where a group of local youths allegedly harassed visitors.