Hawaii Doctor Convicted of Attempted Manslaughter in Wife's Cliffside Assault

A Hawaii anesthesiologist has been convicted of attempted manslaughter for assaulting his wife during a cliffside hike in 2025.

A Honolulu jury found 47-year-old Dr. Gerhardt Konig guilty on Wednesday after deliberating for a day. The conviction carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for August 13.

Prosecutors alleged that during a March 2025 trip to Honolulu for his wife's birthday, Konig attempted to push his wife, Arielle, off a cliff on the Pali Puka Trail. When unsuccessful, he allegedly tried to stab her with a syringe and subsequently struck her with a rock. The attack was interrupted by two hikers who heard her cries for help.

Konig testified that his wife initiated the physical altercation by hitting him with a rock, and he acted in self-defense. His attorney, Thomas Otake, announced plans to appeal the verdict, stating, "We are thankful that they did not convict him of attempted murder, which would have been life in prison. We look forward to an appeal related to some of the judge's rulings throughout the case."

The trial, which began last month, revealed details of the couple's troubled marriage, including allegations of infidelity. Arielle has since filed for divorce.

Note: This story includes discussion of domestic violence.