KAILUA-KONA >> A trial for a Big Island man suspected of stabbing two women outside Waikoloa Highlands Shopping Center has been set for April 7.

West Hawaii Today reports 34-year-old Aaron Nakamoto has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and felony assault.

The two women involved in the incident testified Monday at a preliminary hearing in South Kohala District Court.

They said they exchanged words with Nakamoto inside a restaurant, and after leaving, one of them approached him and threw a punch.

They said Nakamoto overpowered the woman and straddled her while they continued to exchange punches. The second woman testified she tried to get Nakamoto off her friend.

Both suffered stab injuries that a North Hawaii Community Hospital emergency room doctor described as life-threatening.