Single-Vehicle Crash in Pāhoa Leaves 1 Dead

One person is dead after a single-vehicle crash in Pāhoa on Saturday, Sept. 4.

The crash occurred in the area of Highway 130, also known as Keaʻau-Pāhoa Road, and Kaluahine Street. Hawaiʻi Police responded to the incident at approximately 9:21 p.m. When they arrived on scene, officers determined a 2000 Toyota Tacoma traveling north on Highway 130 had lost control and slid off the right shoulder of the roadway, causing the vehicle to roll.

HPD noted the roadway was wet and it had been raining off and on in the area at the time of the collision.

The male operator, the sole occupant of the truck, was ejected and located unresponsive under the vehicle. He was later transported to Hilo Medical Center and was pronounced dead at 12:25 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 5.

According to police, authorities investigating the incident determined speed and the driver not wearing a seatbelt at the time were factors in the crash. At this time, police have not determined if alcohol and/or drugs are factors in this investigation.

The driver’s identity is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

This is the 16th fatal traffic collision of 2021 compared to 13 fatal traffic collisions during this same time period last year.

The East Hawaiʻi Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation, which is pending. Police are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has information to contact Officer Jared Cabatu at 808-961-2339 or send an email to Jared.Cabatu@HawaiiCounty.gov.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.