The incident took place on Maluhia Road, where a 1991 Dodge truck carrying two occupants was traveling northbound. Tragically, the vehicle veered off the road and collided with a tree, resulting in fatal injuries for the driver, a Lihu‘e resident.
Upon arrival at the scene, first responders found the overturned vehicle on the southbound roadway shoulder. The driver succumbed to their injuries from the impact with the tree, while the second occupant, a 32-year-old female resident of Lihu‘e, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Wilcox Memorial Hospital for treatment.
The Kaua‘i Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section conducted an on-scene investigation, leading to the closure of Maluhia Road in both directions for approximately three hours. Initial reports suggest that speed and impairment may have played a role in the tragic incident.
Authorities are appealing to any witnesses of the crash to come forward with information by contacting Officer Himogala at 808-241-1617. For those preferring to remain anonymous, tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at 808-246-8300 or through the Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i P3 Tips Mobile App.
