Speed a Factor in Overnight Ka`u Fatality

A 39-year-old Kurtistown man suffered fatal injuries in a single-car collision in the Kaʻu area of the Big Island overnight.

The accident was reported at 12:43 a.m. today. It occurred on Highway 11 near Pahala, between mile markers 48 and 49.

Police say the man was traveling south on the highway when the 1987 Ford sedan he was operating left the roadside and overturned.

The man was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle, according to police reports.

Authorities say the man was pronounced dead after being transported to Kona Community Hospital.

Police say speed was likely a factor in the crash.

The name of the victim is being withheld pending positive identification.

The accident was the 22nd traffic fatality on the island this year, compared to 15 at the same time a year ago.