Hawaii Island police are investigating a fatal traffic crash in Hilo that occurred on Sunday afternoon in the area of Kanoelehua Avenue and East Kawili Street.
Responding to the collision, which was reported at 4:33 p.m., police determined that a 2019 Honda motorcycle traveling south on Kanoelehua rear-ended a 1997 Toyota Tacoma that was stopped in traffic at a red light at the East Kawili Street intersection. It was noted that the roadway was dry and the motorcycle operator was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The operator of the 2019 Honda motorcycle was unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to the Hilo Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead at 6:14 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. The motorcyclist will remain unidentified pending positive identification and notification of his next of kin.
The operator of the 1997 Toyota Tacoma, a 32-year-old man, was not injured.
Police have determined that speed and the motorcyclist not wearing a helmet are the two primary factors in the outcome of this collision. Further investigation will be conducted relative to any additional contributing factors.
The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation, which is pending. Police are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has information about it, to contact Officer Clifford Antonio at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Clifford.Antonio@HawaiiCounty.gov. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This was the second traffic fatality on Big Island roads on Sunday, and the 30th fatal traffic crash of 2022. There were 20 fatal traffic crashes during the same time period last year.