A 22-year-old employee at a Wendy’s in Nanakuli, Hawaii, was fatally stabbed on Sunday, October 6, 2024, following an altercation with a homeless patron.
The incident, which occurred in the early morning hours, also left another worker injured. The suspect, identified as 60-year-old Reynaldo Cheney, was taken into custody and faces charges related to the deadly assault.
According to police reports, the trouble began when Kashka Otto, a young Wendy’s employee, asked Cheney to stop moving furniture inside the restaurant. Cheney reportedly responded with a derogatory comment, escalating the situation.
As Otto and another staff member, a 44-year-old man, attempted to escort Cheney out, the argument took a tragic turn. Eyewitnesses describe how Cheney pulled out a knife and launched an attack on Otto and his colleague. Otto was rushed to the hospital, but he was later pronounced dead due to the severity of his injuries.
The second employee also sustained injuries but is expected to recover. Authorities confirmed that Cheney has a criminal history and had been involved in previous disturbances in the area.
Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke conveyed deep sadness regarding the loss, noting that this event highlights the increasing challenges confronting the community. She emphasized the need for collective efforts to establish a safer environment. The tragedy has stunned the community, prompting widespread calls for enhanced safety measures and greater support for both the homeless population and local businesses.
Cotti Foods, the franchisee responsible for operating Wendy’s in Nanakuli, announced that it is collaborating with law enforcement to aid in the investigation and is offering counseling resources to its staff. The restaurant will stay closed until further notice. The statement emphasized that the safety of customers and employees is a top priority and expressed deep shock and sadness over the tragic and senseless event.
Samantha DeCorte, Chair of the Nanakuli-Maili Neighborhood Board, noted that incidents like this are “crimes you just can’t prepare for.” She mentioned that many local youth work at that Wendy’s location, which has never been a cause for concern. Now, due to this senseless act of violence, the sense of safety has been compromised, a sentiment echoed by Rep. Kila, who expressed his sorrow for the affected individuals.
Community members continue collaborating with state officials to maintain safety in their neighborhoods. DeCorte highlighted that the recent addition of around three dozen officers had improved the situation, which makes the incident surprising given the heavy patrol presence in the area.
Police spokeswoman Michelle Yu did not respond to a request for additional information. The incident continues to be investigated by the police.
