A Hawaii man who shot and killed an acquaintance after a violent altercation will spend decades behind bars.
A Honolulu judge sentenced Kawika Kanakanui to life in prison with the possibility of parole for the shooting death of 33-year-old Bryson Okada. Kanakanui was found guilty by an Oahu jury of second-degree murder and other firearm offenses.
On May 18, 2022, around 10 p.m., the 27-year-old defendant got into a heated argument with a third party at an illegal game room, 24/7, in a row of businesses located behind the Convention Center on Kapiolani Boulevard. Soon, the duo went outside the game room, where a fight ensued. At some point, Okada and the third party returned to the game room, and they were also warned of Kanakanui’s return.
According to Star Advertiser, witnesses testified the defendant started another round of argument with Okada when he pulled out a handgun and fired at the victim. The first couple of shots missed the victim, but the following shot struck the Okada in the head.
During the sentencing hearing, Kanakanui was remorseful and apologized for his actions.
"I've taken a lot of time to think about what I did. The most part I’m sorry about is that he can’t be here with us today," said Kanakanui reported Island News.
The defendant will be eligible for parole after spending 20 years in prison.
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