Police investigate fatal Christmas Eve motor vehicle collision

Hawaiʻi Island police have initiated a negligent homicide investigation following a fatal motor vehicle collision on Wednesday, Dec. 24.

At 7:28 p.m., officers responded to a two-vehicle collision near the 13-mile marker on Daniel K. Inouye Highway and determined that a 2020 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was traveling east toward Hilo when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2025 Mazda two-door convertible head-on as it was traveling west toward Kona.

The female operator of the Mazda was found unresponsive at the scene and transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead at 7:59 p.m.

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

The operator of the Toyota, 34-year-old Caitlin Smith of Hilo, sustained minor injuries and was taken to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment. Upon release, Smith was arrested for the following offenses:

• First-degree negligent homicide
• Operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant
• Reckless driving

Smith remains in custody as the investigation continues.

The Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and is continuing the investigation. At this time, police believe speed, alcohol and/or drugs, and reckless driving were the primary factors in the crash.

Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to contact Officer Johnathan Rapoza at 808-961-2339 or by email at Johnathan.Rapoza@hawaiipolice.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.

This is the 21st traffic fatality of 2025 compared to 28 traffic fatalities at the same time last year.