Driver suffers severe injuries after nearly hitting pedestrian in North Kona

A 31-year-old man, originally from Wisconsin, suffered severe injuries following a single-vehicle collision in the early morning hours of Jan. 29 in North Kona.

The crash occurred around 2 a.m. on Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway, just south of the Henry Street intersection.

According to Hawaiʻi Island police, a red 2004 Nissan 350Z convertible was heading south and nearly struck a pedestrian who was crossing the highway in a marked crosswalk. The Nissan lost control, striking several large boulders on the west side of the highway and rolling over several times before the vehicle came to a stop.

The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected more than 300 feet from the vehicle. He was transported to Kona Community Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. He subsequently was transported to the Queens Medical Center on Oʻahu for further treatment.

Police believe that excessive speed is a factor in the crash.

The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a traffic crash investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Adam Roberg at 808-326-4646 ext. 229 or email at adam.roberg@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.