Nissen Charged With Attempted Murder and First-Degree Assault

A Kansas man was charged with second-degree attempted murder and first-degree assault following a stabbing incident during a snorkel tour off the coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, according to court records and local law enforcement.

The incident occurred on April 16, 2026, when 34-year-old Daniel Nissen of Wichita, Kansas, allegedly attacked a fellow tour participant with a knife during a guided snorkeling excursion near Kona. The victim, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was transported to Kona Community Hospital in stable condition after sustaining multiple stab wounds to the torso and upper body.

Hawaii County Police Department officers responded to the scene shortly after the attack and took Nissen into custody without incident. He was subsequently booked at the Hawaii County Detention Facility and appeared in Kona District Court on Friday, April 18, where he was formally charged with second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, and two counts of terroristic threatening.

According to the probable cause statement filed by prosecutors, Nissen became agitated during the tour after a disagreement with the victim over equipment use. Witnesses reported that he suddenly produced a folding knife and lunged at the victim, inflicting injuries before being restrained by other tour members and the guide. The knife was recovered at the scene and submitted as evidence.

Nissen, who had been visiting Hawaii on a week-long vacation, remains in custody without bail pending further proceedings. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 2, 2026, for a preliminary hearing. If convicted on the attempted murder charge, he faces up to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving a minimum term.

The incident has drawn attention to safety protocols on commercial ocean tours in Hawaii, particularly those involving water-based activities where participants are in close proximity for extended periods. While such violent incidents are rare, tour operators have come under scrutiny regarding passenger screening, guide training, and emergency response capabilities.

Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, which oversees commercial ocean recreation activities, stated that all licensed tour operators must adhere to safety standards, including having certified guides trained in first aid and conflict de-escalation. However, the agency noted that Notice no current requirements for background checks on participants or psychological screening prior to tour participation.

Industry representatives from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Big Island Visitors Bureau emphasized that the vast majority of ocean tours operate safely and that isolated incidents like this one do not reflect broader safety trends. They urged visitors to follow guide instructions and report any concerning behavior immediately.

As of the latest update, the victim continues to recover at Kona Community Hospital and is expected to be discharged in the coming days. No further details about the victim’s condition or identity have been released in accordance with medical privacy laws and victim protection policies.