Honolulu, HI – Authorities say a 38-year-old Hawaii man allegedly used a tomahawk to fatally attack his wife less than six months after their marriage, resulting in her death inside their shared Honolulu home. Frank Bright was arrested last weekend and charged with second-degree murder after officials confirmed the brutal nature of the killing.
Incident at Honolulu Home
On Sept. 4, Honolulu Police Department officers were called to the residence of Frank Bright and Aimee Takaki-Bright, 43, following a report from the property owner that the front door was open and no one was responding inside.
“Items were scattered inside,” said Lt. Deena Thoemmes of the Honolulu Police Department. “Both tenants’ vehicles were parked in the driveway.”
Responding officers found Takaki-Bright inside with wounds to her face, neck, and back of her head, consistent with both blunt force and the use of a bladed weapon.
Evidence and Weapon Found
Investigators discovered a black tomahawk near the victim, which police say contained blood matching Takaki-Bright’s DNA. An autopsy confirmed she died from multiple chop wounds, and her death was officially ruled a homicide.
Bright had been arrested the night prior on unrelated charges of criminal trespassing and terroristic threatening. Police reported he was wearing blood-stained jeans and a blood-stained black glove during that arrest.
Marriage and Background
According to court records, Bright and Takaki-Bright had been married for less than five months when he filed for divorce in August, citing that they had grown apart and no longer shared common goals. Bright was reportedly unemployed, while Takaki-Bright was working at a local school.
The couple rented their Honolulu home, where the tragic incident occurred. Authorities have noted that prior to this event, Bright had allegedly demonstrated violent behavior, including threatening his own family.
Prior Family Violence and Legal History
Earlier this year, Bright’s mother filed a temporary restraining order (TRO) against him, alleging that he threatened her and her husband with a gun and struck her over the head. Court records suggest Bright has a history of depression, which was cited in the TRO request.
Arrest and Bail
Bright appeared in court Tuesday, where his bail was set at $1 million. He has not posted bail and remained in custody as of Wednesday. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Takaki-Bright’s death.
Prosecutors and police have urged the public to report any information related to Bright or other potential threats, emphasizing community safety.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
Neighbors expressed shock over the incident, noting that domestic disputes often go unnoticed until violence escalates. Officials remind the public of resources available for individuals facing domestic violence or threats, encouraging early reporting and intervention.
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