Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a critical two-vehicle traffic collision that occurred on Daniel K. Inouye Highway in the area of the 17 mile marker in Hilo yesterday.
Police determined that a white 2012 Ford E350 cargo van traveling east on Daniel K. Inouye Highway veered into the oncoming westbound lane trying to overtake another vehicle. The van tried to pull back into the eastbound lane when a white 2020 Jeep Gladiator truck traveling in the opposite direction struck the van head-on.
The operator of the cargo van, a 41-year-old man from Captain Cook, was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he is listed as stable but critical condition. He is scheduled to be transported to Queens Medical Center on Oʻahu for further treatment.
The operator of the Jeep Gladiator truck, a 44-year-old woman from Virginia, was transported to Hilo Medical Center where she is listed in critical condition and undergoing surgery for her injuries.
There were three minor siblings from Virginia within the Jeep, that included a 14-year-old male in the front seat passenger seat, a 12-year-old male and a 10-year-old male who were all transported to Hilo Medical Center where they are listed in stable condition.
At the time of the collision, weather in the area included heavy rain and fog, which contributed to the lack of visibility. Police believe that speed and inattention are primary factors in the collision, but do not believe alcohol or drugs contributed to the crash. Further investigation will be conducted relative to any additional factors in the incident.
The East Hawaiʻi Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent injury investigation, which is pending. Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Clifford Antonio at (808) 961-2339 or via email Clifford.Antonio@HawaiiCounty.gov.
