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Man Killed in North Hilo Crash

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a single-vehicle fatal traffic collision that occurred on Saturday, February 5, on Highway 19 in Papa‘aloa, near the 18 mile marker.

Police have determined that a 2020 Ford Edge SUV traveling north on Highway 19 appears to have veered onto the right shoulder while approaching the bridge and proceeded off the cliff, striking the bridge’s support column before coming to a rest in the ravine below.

An adult male believed to be the vehicle driver was located at the scene unresponsive. He was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.  An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. He will remain unidentified pending positive identification and notification of his next of kin.  The East Hawaiʻi Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation, which is pending.

Police believe that speed is a primary factor in this collision. Further investigation will be conducted relative to any additional contributing factors.  At the time of the collision the roadways did not appear to be wet, however it had been overcast in the area.

The Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation will conduct their own investigation in further assessing the damage to the bridge.

Police ask that anyone who may have witnessed or who has information regarding this accident to contact Officer Blayne Matsui at (808) 961-2339 or via email Blayne.Matsui@HawaiiCounty.gov
 

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