‘I was terrified’: Viral door-kicking challenge concerns. See what to be on the lookout for

HONOLULU (KHNL/Gray News) - Hawaiian residents say a viral social media trend dubbed the “door-kicking challenge” has apparently made its way to their neighborhoods.

Authorities said the trend typically involves teenagers who run up to random residential front doors late at night, deliver a heavy, high-impact kick or bang to the door to simulate a home invasion before running away.

Maui Lani residents note this type of behavior has been happening consistently since June, with home surveillance videos capturing teens kicking random doors in the middle of the night.

Homeowner Matt, who asked that his full name not be disclosed because he fears retaliation from the vandals, said something like this has already happened to him.

“When you’re in the house at 1:30 in the morning and you’re sleeping and you hear this violent pounding on the door, it’s a little unsettling,” he said.

Matt said he spent nearly $14,000 repairing damage and trying to safeguard his home.

Ewa Beach resident Mae also said she heard the front door of her home being kicked about five times around 9 p.m. one night.

“It literally was so powerful that it shook the whole house and it felt like somebody was trying to break down the door,” Mae said. “I was terrified.”

Mae was shocked to see the trend was also happening on Maui.

“It happened to another resident in our area. So, I’m sure it’s happening quite often,” Mae said.

Also worried about retaliation, Mae did not wish to share her full name or the specific neighborhood where she lives.

“I really feel so bad for that family that they also have been experiencing forceful kicking on their doors,” she said.

Hoping to raise awareness by speaking out about her experience, Mae had a message for those pulling the pranks, who are believed to be teenagers:

“Times are hard. It is expensive to fix things and it’s very disrespectful.”

Mae urged parents, “Talk to their children about being respectful to neighbors and their property.”

Matt said he has filed multiple police reports and has contacted his homeowners association.

“Of course we want justice,” he said. “In the same breath, I have a heart, and if you strip all of this away from the individual, they’re really just kids ... I’m not sure if this is a cry for help.”

Matt is asking his community for help identifying the criminals.