KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii — A seemingly routine snorkel tour took a life-threatening turn when a 62-year-old captain was stabbed by a passenger off the Kona coast on April 16. The attacker, 21-year-old Avery Nissen from Overland Park, Kansas, has since been charged with attempted murder among other offenses.
The ill-fated outing began at Honokōhau Harbor, a popular launching point for marine adventures. Captain Stan Lurbiecki was leading a private tour for Nissen, who was accompanied by his mother and sibling. While the family enjoyed snorkeling, Nissen remained on board and reportedly retrieved a fillet knife from the boat’s galley before launching an unexpected assault on Lurbiecki as they prepared to return to shore.
Police responded to a call at 3:21 p.m. when the boat arrived back at the harbor with both the victim and the suspect on board. Witnesses reported that other passengers intervened during the attack, managing to restrain Nissen until authorities arrived. Lurbiecki suffered stab wounds to his lower abdomen and multiple cuts to his head and hands. He was transported to Kona Community Hospital in stable condition after receiving several blood transfusions.
In the aftermath of the stabbing, Lurbiecki detailed a dramatic struggle for control. He managed to wrest the knife from Nissen, who briefly jumped overboard before being recovered by the captain. During the tumultuous return journey, Lurbiecki’s family members worked to apply pressure to his wounds, preventing further blood loss before medical personnel could take over.
The incident has sparked significant interest in both the rapid response of those aboard the vessel and the subsequent criminal proceedings. Nissen faces charges of second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, and second-degree assault, with bail set at $1.57 million. Court sessions have revealed a request for a mental health evaluation, and Nissen pleaded not guilty during his initial arraignment.
The attack stands out due to its unprecedented nature in an area known for its tranquil snorkeling excursions. Captain Lurbiecki, who has guided tours for approximately 35 years, stated that nothing like this had ever occurred under his watch. Witnesses noted that Nissen appeared anxious prior to the assault, though authorities have not yet identified a clear motive for the violence.
The incident has drawn attention from law enforcement as they continue to investigate. The area has typically been a centerpiece of the local tourism industry, offering serene experiences along the leeward coastline. The community remains shaken as the case unfolds, with many eager for answers regarding the unprovoked attack.
The case is scheduled for a pretrial conference on July 13, followed by a trial on August 25. As legal proceedings move forward, both Lurbiecki’s recovery and the questions surrounding Nissen’s motives remain at the forefront of community discussions. Local officials are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, adding another layer of urgency to a situation that has left many in shock.