An 82-year-old man was attacked from behind and had his throat slashed in what police said was an unprovoked attack in the restroom of the Mililani theaters yesterday afternoon.

The man suffered wounds to his neck, face and other parts of his body and was taken to Wahiawa General Hospital. Police said the man's injuries were not life-threatening and he was released from the hospital late yesterday.

Police arrested a 32-year-old Wahiawa man on suspicion of second-degree attempted murder. He was being held last night in the police cellblock pending charges.

The incident occurred at about 3:35 p.m. in the men's restroom of the Consolidated Theatre's Mililani 14-plex on Meheula Parkway. The elderly man was washing his hands when he was grabbed from behind, police said.

Police Detective Gary Lahens said robbery did not appear to be a motive in the attack.

"All of a sudden this other male came from behind and without any provocation slashed his throat and cut his face and other areas of (his) body," Lahens said.

The older man cried for help and theater employees came to his aid and managed to subdue the suspect, Lahens said.

The victim was lucky to escape serious injuries, Lahens said, adding that "during the struggle he was able to deflect the attack."

Police recovered a knife they believe was used in the incident.

Theater employees deferred comment to Consolidated management. Scott Brazwell, vice president of operations for Consolidated Theatres, declined comment.

Lahens, who has been in the Police Department for 25 years, described the attack as "very, very rare." But he cautioned residents to always be aware of their environment.

"This case reminds us ... no matter where we are, we have to be vigilant," Lahens said. "Although we live in paradise, you have to be vigilant."

Reach Curtis Lum at culum@honoluluadvertiser.com.