KAILUA-KONA — On Monday, authorities identified a man killed in an auto-pedestrian crash Sunday night in the Kona Palisades neighborhood.
Nelsin Santos, 25, of Ocean View, was struck at the intersection of Kaiminani Drive and Ane Keohokalole Highway by a 2016 Toyota 4Runner, driven by a 24-year-old Kailua-Kona man, according to a press release from Hawaii Police Department. Police say Santos was walking within the westbound lane when he was hit by the motorist, who was also traveling west.
Police responded to the incident at 8:30 p.m. When they arrived on scene, the release states Santos had suffered critical injuries and was transported to Kona Community Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 9:27 p.m.
Palisades resident Jowella Hull lives near the intersection where the accident happened. She said she didn’t hear the initial crash.
Hull said she was inside her home when she noticed cars at the intersection and someone with a flash light. She didn’t think anything of it until about 10 minutes later when she heard someone scream.
When she looked out at the intersection again, Hull said, police and fire were on scene and she could hear an ambulance responding.
Hull explained there are many walkers and joggers on Kaiminani Drive at night. The only light available at the intersection at night is provided by dull yellow street lights.
“This is something that was eventually going to happen,” she said.
Generally speaking, Hull explained Kaiminani Drive is a dangerous road. She said motorists exceed the 45 mph posted speed limit and they often use the left-turn lane at Ane Keohokalole Highway as a passing lane.
Hull said if the pedestrian who was hit wasn’t from the area, he wouldn’t know how fast people are driving.
“It’s just so sad,” she said.
Hull thinks the speed limit should be reduced. She also said there should be electronic signs that show motorists when they’re going over the posted speed limit.
The Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent homicide investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash can call Officer Justin Hooser at 326-4646 ext. 229. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call the island-wide Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.
This is the 22nd traffic fatality this year compared with 15 at this time last year, according to the release.