Man dies in single-vehicle crash in Hilo with high speed likely a factor

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a single-vehicle collision that claimed the life of a man just after midnight on Thursday in Hilo.

At 12:07 a.m., police responded to a report of a traffic collision on Pauahi Street near Piopio Street. Investigators determined a silver 1998 Honda Civic two-door sedan was traveling east on Pauahi Street at a high rate of speed when the operator lost control of the vehicle, causing it to skid into the metal railing of the Pauahi Street bridge.

The male operator, who was the lone occupant of the vehicle, was found unresponsive at the scene. Fire and medical personnel attempted lifesaving measures but was unable to revive him. He was pronounced deceased at 12:23 a.m.

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. His name is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of his family.

At this time, speed and alcohol, and/or drugs are believed to be factors in this collision.

Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to please contact Officer Laurence Davis at 808-961-2339 or via email at Laurence.Davis@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300. 

This is the third traffic fatality on Hawai‘i Island in 2026.