Kailua-Kona, Hawaii — A routine afternoon snorkel trip off the coast of Kailua-Kona in Hawaii turned into a violent and shocking incident when a boat captain was repeatedly stabbed by a passenger, leaving others onboard scrambling to stop the attack.
According to the Hawaii Police Department, the incident occurred Thursday afternoon during a three-hour snorkel tour aboard a fishing vessel. Authorities say a 21-year-old man, identified as Avery Nissen, allegedly attacked the 62-year-old captain using a fillet knife while the boat was out at sea.
What Happened Onboard
The vessel was carrying several individuals on what was expected to be a routine snorkeling experience along Hawaii’s scenic western coastline. At some point during the trip, police say Nissen suddenly turned violent and began stabbing the captain multiple times.
The captain suffered a stab wound to the lower abdomen along with several cuts to the head and hands. The nature of the attack caused panic among passengers, but some individuals onboard managed to step in and restrain the suspect before the situation escalated further.
Emergency Response at Harbor
Authorities were alerted around 3:21 p.m. when the boat began returning to shore with both the injured captain and the restrained suspect onboard. Law enforcement officers responded to Honokōhau Harbor in Kailua-Kona, where Nissen was taken into custody without further incident.
The injured captain was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Officials confirmed that he remains in stable condition and is receiving medical care.
Charges and Investigation
Police have charged Nissen with multiple serious offenses, including second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, and second-degree assault. He is currently being held on bail set at $1.57 million.
Investigators say the motive behind the attack remains unclear at this time. Authorities are continuing to gather details and are urging anyone who may have additional information to come forward.
Nissen is expected to appear in court in the coming days as the legal process moves forward.
Ongoing Concerns
Incidents like this are rare in Hawaii’s tourism-driven waters, where snorkel tours are typically considered safe and well-regulated. However, this case has raised concerns about onboard safety and the unpredictability of such violent outbursts in confined environments like boats at sea.
Officials say the investigation is still ongoing, and more details may emerge as authorities continue to review evidence and witness accounts.
