Motorcyclist Dies Days After Crash in Hilo

Hawai‘i police are investigating a single-vehicle traffic collision that occurred on Saturday, May 21, in the area of Kanoelehua and East Kawailani Street, Hilo, resulting in the death of a motorcyclist.

The crash occurred at 9:51 p.m. According to police, the motorcyclist, identified as 40-year-old Eric Fontes of Hilo, was located unresponsive on scene and transported in critical condition to Hilo Medical Center and later to Queen’s Medical Center on Oahu.

Police were notified that Fontes died at Queens Medical Center on May 25, 2022, at 3:56 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

At the time of the collision, the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet and the roadway was dry. Further investigation will be conducted by the East Hawai‘i Traffic Enforcement Unit relative to any additional contributing factors.

The East Hawai‘i Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation, which is pending. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has information to contact Officer Clifford Antonio at 808-961-2339 or via email Clifford.Antonio@HawaiiCounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.

This is the 17th traffic fatality this year compared to 11 at this time last year.