Weekly DUI sweep nets 19 drivers; police cite drop in fatal crashes

During the week of Oct. 13–19, the Hawaiʻi Police Department reported that 19 drivers were arrested on Hawaiʻi Island for driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Officials with the Hawaiʻi police noted that seven of the motorists arrested were involved in traffic collisions, and one driver was under 21.

As of Oct. 19, police have made 727 DUI arrests in 2025, a 7% decrease compared to 782 arrests during the same period last year.

The department’s Traffic Services Section also reported 812 major crashes so far this year, up 2.78% from 790 during the same time in 2024.

Despite the rise in major crashes, fatal collisions are down.

Police have recorded 17 fatal crashes resulting in 18 deaths this year, compared to 22 fatal crashes and 24 deaths during the same period last year, a decline of 22.73% in fatal crashes and 25% in overall fatalities.

The non-traffic fatality count, which includes incidents off public roadways, remains at zero for the year, unchanged from 2024.

Police said DUI roadblocks and patrols will continue across the island as part of ongoing efforts to reduce impaired driving.