Motorcyclist Struck by Car After Crashing on Hilo Roadway, Police Say

A motorcyclist is dead after a traffic collision in the area of Daniel K. Inouye Highway and Kaumana Drive in Hilo Monday, Oct. 18.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. According to Hawaiʻi Police Department, a male, operating a 2014 Honda Grom motorcycle, was traveling east on Kaumana Drive approaching the highway intersection, also known as Saddle Road, on a wet roadway.

Authorities say the motorcyclist crossed Kaumana Drive from the eastbound lane into the westbound shoulder, causing him to lose control and fall. The male ended up in the middle of the intersection of Saddle Road while his bike came to rest in the westbound lane.

Not long after the motorcyclist crashed, police say a woman, driving a 2020 Kia sedan traveling west on Saddle Road, swerved to avoid the motorcycle and ended up striking the motorcyclist who was laying in the middle of the roadway.

The male operator of the motorcycle was located unresponsive. He was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 7:50 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

At the time of the collision, police say the roads were wet, the area was dark, and it was raining.

The name of the motorcyclist is being withheld pending positive identification and the notification of next of kin.

The female driver of the Kia sedan did not receive any injuries as a result of the traffic collision.

Police investigating the traffic collision have determined that speed and wet road conditions are factors in this investigation. The operator of the motorcycle did not have a helmet on at the time of the collision and was wearing a black hoodie.

Police have not determined if alcohol and/or drugs are factors at this time.

This is the 21st 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 negligent homicide investigation, which is pending. Police are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has information to contact Officer Blayne Matsui at 808-961-2339 or send an email at Blayne.Matsui@HawaiiCounty.gov.

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