Pedestrian Dies in Waimea Single-Vehicle Crash

An early Sunday morning single-vehicle crash left an unidentified man dead in Waimea, according to the Hawai’i Police Department.

Officers responded to a 1:13 a.m. call, where they learned that a 2010 Nissan Frontier pickup truck was driving west on Kawaihae Road near the Door or Faith Church when it veered across the highway and collided with a male pedestrian who was walking on the east shoulder of the road.

The unidentified male pedestrian sustained critical injuries from the collision and was taken to Kona Community Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 6:20 a.m.

Twenty-seven-year-old BertJim Badua of Kapa’au was the operator of the truck. Badua was arrested on suspicion of first-degree negligent homicide and released pending further investigation.

Both alcohol and speed are believed to be factors in the collision.

Police have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, which will also assist in determining the man’s identity.

In addition, a negligent homicide investigation has been initiated by the Traffic Enforcement Unit.

Anyone who witnessed the crash should call Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua at 326-4646, extension 229.

Those who prefer to remain anonymous should call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.