Police Officer Struck by Vehicle in Construction Zone

A Hilo man has been charged with two offenses after his vehicle on Tuesday allegedly struck a police officer directing traffic in a construction zone in Hilo.

The reserve police officer was directing traffic in the vicinity of a sewer line project on Kalanianaole Street when the incident occurred. Police said the officer was standing on the shoulder of Silva Street with his hands extended in an attempt to stop a Mazda sedan police said was driving recklessly.

The Mazda struck the left leg of the officer and then fled the scene.

Police on Wednesday morning arrested 44-year-old Robert Bungula of Hilo in connection with the incident. He was charged that afternoon with failure to obey a police officer and failure to render aid. His bail was set at $1,500.

The officer, who was not identified, was treated for a minor injury at Hilo Medical Center and is expected to make a full recovery.

Police are reminding the public to use extreme caution when traveling through construction areas and to be mindful of construction workers and officers exposed to danger from their close proximity to passing vehicles.