Public invited to ‘Heal Our Highways’ sign-waving following string of deadly crashes on Big Island roads

The public is invited to attend a “Heal Our Highways” community awareness event in Waimea on Saturday, May 23, following a string of deadly crashes on Hawai‘i Island roads.

Hosted by the Hawai‘i Police Department, the sign-waving was launched in October 2025 by the department’s Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit to increase awareness about the impact of traffic fatalities on the loved ones and friends of those killed.

As of Tuesday, May 19, there have been 13 traffic fatalities in 2026, including eight in the past two weeks. That includes two recent double fatalities on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road.

“The impact that traffic fatalities have on those left behind is life-altering,” said Area II Traffic Enforcement Officer Adam Roberg, who developed the campaign. “If one person’s death affects 20 people, then 20 people have lived through that event. Several family members of those killed in past traffic fatalities have attended previous Heal Our Highways events and we encourage others to attend Saturday’s sign-waving.”

The gathering will also honor the life of Pastor Sione Tilini, a beloved Waimea resident and pastor whose recent passing in a traffic collision deeply impacted the community.

Representatives from several agencies and organizations are expected to participate, including the County of Hawai‘i Mayor’s Office, Hawai‘i Police Department, Hawai‘i Fire Department, North Hawai‘i Community Hospital, Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement Sheriffs, Department of Land and Natural Resources, local tow companies, churches, and other community groups.

Organizers encourage the public to attend and stand united in remembrance, healing, and action to help prevent future tragedies on Hawai‘i Island roadways.

“Healing begins when a community comes together,” Roberg said.

The Saturday event will take place from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Church Row, off of Highway 190.