A series of crimes involving a stolen tractor-trailer that ultimately caused the closure of Pilipaa Street in Hilo Wednesday evening are being investigated by authorities.
The Hawai’i Police Department reported Wednesday evening to an incident involving a tractor and trailer that struck two vehicles and a house on Pilipaa Street.
Officers arriving at the scene found several individuals restraining the alleged driver of the tractor-trailer as he was seen walking away from the scene.
The tractor, trailer, and its contents were stolen from a business on Maka’ala Street and was observed driving through a closed gate.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
Witnesses at the Pilipaa scene told officers that the stolen tractor-trailer struck a vehicle and ran another vehicle off the road on Pilipaa Street before striking and severing a utility pole.
In addition, the tractor-trailer continued southbound on Pilipaa Street before running off the street and striking a house.
Police say neither of the drivers or occupants of the house were injured.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
Solomon Aloha Kepano, 30, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree theft, fourth-degree theft, third-degree criminal property damage, accident involving damage to a vehicle or property, and two counts of first-degree reckless endangering.
Kepano, a Hilo resident, remains in police custody at the Hilo police cellblock as Area I Criminal Investigation Section detectives continue to investigate.
Temporary repairs were completed by Hawai’i Electric Light.
Anyone who witnessed a white Freightliner and a white container trailer traveling through the industrial area onto Kanoelehua Avenue, Puaianko Avenue, or Pilipaa Street in Hilo should contact the Police Deparment’s non-emergency line at 935-3311, or contact Detective Dean Uyetake by phone at 961-2379 or via e-mail at [email protected].
Individuals who prefer to remain anonymous should call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.
This comments section is a public community forum for the purpose of free expression. Although Big Island Now encourages respectful communication only, some content may be considered offensive. Please view at your own discretion. View Comments
A series of crimes involving a stolen tractor-trailer that ultimately caused the closure of Pilipaa Street in Hilo Wednesday evening are being investigated by authorities.
