Child Struck By Vehicle in Parking Lot Dies

The Hawai’i Police Department reports that a one-year-old boy died Saturday night after being struck by a vehicle.

Police responded to a 7:54 p.m. call that brought them to the parking lot of Kahalu’u Housing in Kailua-Kona, where they learned that a white 1996 Chevrolet Suburban was traveling south in the parking lot in an attempt to reverse into a parking stall.

The vehicle reportedly struck the one-year-old, identified by HPD as Benwa Benjimon of Kailua-Kona.

Authorities say the child was standing in front of the Suburban as it pulled forward causing Benjimon to suffer critical injuries.

Benjimon was take to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:37 p.m.

According to HPD, 38-year-old Benjimon Gideon of Kailua-Kona was arrested and later released, pending further investigation.

A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated and an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of Benjimon’s death.

Anyone with information regarding the incident or who witnessed the crash should call Officer Justin Hooser at 326-4646, Ext. 229.

Individuals who prefer to maintain anonymity should call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.