16-year-old in critical condition following collision in Hilo involving on-duty Big Island police officer

A 16-year-old male remained in critical condition Saturday morning following a motor vehicle/pedestrian collision Friday night in Hilo that involved an on-duty Big Island police officer.

The 18-year veteran of the Hawai‘i Police Department was operating a marked 2008 Ford four-door sedan police vehicle when it struck the teen at 10:24 p.m. Friday on Kapi‘olani Street, between Mohouli and Lanikaula streets.

The vehicle was not operating in an emergency response mode and did have the blue pilot light illuminated. At the time of the collision there was minimal lighting in the area and it was raining.

The 16-year-old was wearing dark clothing and walking in the middle of the roadway. He was not in a marked crosswalk.

The teen was transported to Hilo Medical Center for treatment of head injuries.

The East Hawai‘i Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the incident and continues to investigate. At this time, police don’t think speed was a factor in the collision.

A negligent injury investigation was initiated and the officer involved in the incident, who was not injured, was placed on administrative leave pending investigation, which is standard procedure. The Office of Professional Standards also initiated an internal inquiry as a result of the collision.

If anyone has information regarding this collision they can contact Officer Laurence Davis at 808-961-2339 or via email at Laurence.Davis@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.