Mountain View man dead after pickup truck crashes into tree
A 42-year-old Mountain View man died Friday night after the pickup truck he was driving left a roadway, struck a tree and overturned, according to Hawai‘i Island Police.
Authorities identified the driver as Kainalu Rabusitz. Officers responded at about 10:07 p.m. Oct. 2 to a reported crash on North Kulani Road, just south of Stainback Highway.
Investigators said Rabusitz was driving a green 1998 Toyota pickup south on North Kulani Road when he lost control. The truck went onto the right shoulder, struck a tree, and overturned.
Rabusitz was the only person in the vehicle and was found unresponsive at the scene.
Firefighters and medical personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but he could not be revived. He was pronounced dead at 10:32 p.m.
Police have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators said speed, failure to wear a seat belt, alcohol and/or drugs may have contributed to the crash.
The collision marks the 26th traffic fatality on Hawai‘i Island this year, compared with 17 at the same point in 2025.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Officer Johnathan Rapoza at 808-961-2339 or Johnathan.Rapoza@hawaiicounty.gov.
Residents can also report anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.
