A couple arrests have finally been made in one of Hawaii’s most disturbing surf-adjacent stories of the year—and more could be on the way.
According to the Honolulu Police Department, three juvenile suspects have been arrested in connection with the violent North Shore assault that left lifeguard Kekoa Tamale and a 15-year-old boy hospitalized with serious injuries. The arrests were announced this week as investigators continue to piece together what happened during the shocking incident at Waiale’e Beach, better known to locals as “Dead Man’s Curve.”
SURFER previously reported that Tamale, a 23-year-old North Shore lifeguard, stepped in after witnessing a large group allegedly attacking the teenager. Now, graphic videos from the scene are circulating in conjunction with the investigation.
“They drag this 15-year-old out of the car,” Tamale said after the assault. “It was a mix of men and high schoolers, but pretty big guys, and they were holding him down.”
Tamale said he intervened because nobody else would.
“Everyone was either filming, laughing, or ran, so no one was helping this boy and if I didn’t do anything, he would’ve died,” he said.
According to police, both Tamale and the teen suffered significant injuries during the attack. They were hospitalized. Investigators also allege the victims were restrained and prevented from leaving, leading to the kidnapping-related offenses of the case.
Warning: graphic footage from the incident below.
See the statement from the Honolulu PD here.
Police said one 17-year-old and two 14-year-olds were arrested on June 2 in connection with the case. The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that additional arrests are anticipated. Charges will be forwarded to prosecutors for review.
Related: North Shore Lifeguard Beaten by Mob While Protecting Teen: ‘It Was Like Torture’ (Video)
The attack sparked outrage throughout Hawaii after videos circulated online showing portions of the assault. Tamale later revealed he suffered a fractured eye socket requiring surgery, a broken hand, and a concussion. The teenage victim also had serious injuries.
In the aftermath, supporters launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses and recovery costs for both victims.
For many in Hawaii’s surf community, the arrests represent an important first step. But with police expecting additional suspects to be identified, the case is far from over.
Support the GoFundMe account here.
Related: ‘Ambassador of Aloha’ Beats Up Monk Seal Attacker on Maui as Officials Cheer (Video)
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