Homeowner spends $14,000 repairing damage from viral door-kicking prank

A social media trend known as the door-kicking challenge has reached residential areas in Hawaii, where teenagers are physically striking front doors in the middle of the night. Local authorities describe the activity as a prank where groups of teens run up to random houses, deliver a high-impact kick to the entrance to simulate a break-in, and then flee the scene.

Residents in Maui Lani say the behavior has occurred consistently for several months. Security cameras in the area have recorded instances of teens kicking doors around 1:30 a.m. One homeowner, who asked to be identified only as Matt to avoid retaliation, stated that the noise was unsettling. He reported spending nearly $14,000 to repair the damage and add safeguards to his property.

Mae, a resident of Ewa Beach who also withheld her full name and specific neighborhood for safety, described a separate incident where her front door was kicked approximately five times at 9 p.m. She said the force of the blows shook the entire house and created the sensation that someone was trying to break the door down. Mae expressed fear during the event and noted that she was surprised to learn the trend was also affecting neighbors on Maui.

Both residents have taken steps to address the issue. Matt has filed multiple police reports and contacted his homeowners association. He described a mixed reaction to the vandals, acknowledging they are likely just kids while still seeking justice. He is currently asking his community to help identify the individuals responsible.

Mae shared her frustration with the cost and disrespect of the pranks, noting that times are hard and repairs are expensive. She urged parents to speak with their children about respecting neighbors' property. Mae expressed concern for other families in the area who have experienced similar forceful kicks on their doors.