KALIHI, Hawaii (KHON2) -- There were three separate shootings last week at state public housing complexes in Kalihi, and now some residents are speaking up about safety and security.
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Honolulu Police shot and arrested a 47-year-old man for multiple charges Sunday morning after police said he shot at officers while trying to flee in a stolen vehicle.
The chase ended at the Towers at Kuhio Park, a state housing complex, where a shooting occurred early Tuesday as well.
Residents who live there said there are two different security agencies, one for the building and a different agency for the gates at the two street entrances.
"Now they just waive you in, it's like they don't care anymore," said one resident who has lived there most of her life.
"They used to check everything, they would write down your license plate, check driver's license, and if you didn't have a driver's license, they wouldn't let you in," she added.
She said she knew because she used to work gate security for the company two years ago.
KHON2 asked when she noticed the security stopped checking for identification. "Maybe within the last year, they haven't been on it anymore, they just wave you in."
She said it's led to more crime.
"We're scared, but I'm willing to speak up for my neighbors, parents and all of our children should feel safe coming home from school," she added.
"Home should feel safe, it should feel like I can come home and not have to worry about looking over my shoulders," she continued.
KHON2 spoke with the owner of the security company that manages the gates at the public housing complex. He said he will address the driver's license situation with his guards. He said he has been asking management for years for the arms to be replaced on the guard shacks for added safety for his staff.
The Hawaii Public Housing Authority said in a statement it is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and to creating secure, supportive communities. In response to recent gun violence incidents near our properties, HPHA has been working closely with security partners to implement enhanced safety measures across our sites, ensuring vigilant protection for our residents.
We emphasize that linking increased crime solely to public housing unfairly stigmatizes our residents, the vast majority of whom are responsible, hardworking individuals and families, no different from those in any other neighborhood. This mischaracterization not only fosters negative perceptions but also undermines the community spirit we strive to build.
To maintain a safe environment, we encourage the public to report any crime or suspicious activity. HPHA is also collaborating with the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), which is actively investigating these incidents in coordination with our security teams.
We are firm in our commitment to consequences for any resident found responsible for acts of violence. Such behavior may result in the eviction of the entire household to ensure that all residents can feel safe and secure in their homes.
The safety of our residents is our highest priority. We appreciate your support as we continue to strengthen security, enhance staff training, and implement protective measures to foster a safe and welcoming community for everyone.