Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Accident Claims One Life and Injures Three Others on Hawaii Island
Tragedy struck on Hawaii island on Saturday afternoon as a fatal traffic collision involving three vehicles left one woman dead and three men injured. The incident took place on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, with devastating consequences for those involved.
Details of the Collision
At 2:04 p.m., a 2023 BMW sedan traveling east towards Hilo on Daniel K. Inouye Highway attempted to overtake vehicles and collided head-on with a 2013 Ford SUV traveling west towards Kona. The impact of the collision was so severe that the Ford SUV then struck a 2007 Chevy pickup truck also heading east. All three vehicles sustained major damage as a result of the crash.
Injuries and Fatalities
The 69-year-old man from Pahoa driving the BMW sedan, and the 85-year-old man from Keauhou driving the Ford SUV, both suffered injuries and were transported to Hilo Medical Center for treatment. Additionally, the 65-year-old man from Pahoa who was driving the Chevy pickup truck sustained minor injuries.
Tragically, the front-seat passenger of the Ford SUV, 80-year-old Diane Pittman from Keauhou, was found unresponsive at the scene. She was rushed to Hilo Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of her death. The occupants of the Ford SUV were related, according to police reports.
Investigation and Appeal for Witnesses
The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit has launched a negligent homicide investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that both speed and reckless driving were significant factors in the collision. Authorities are urging any witnesses to come forward and provide information by contacting Hawaii County officer Laurence Davis at (808) 961-2339 or via email at laurence.davis@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
Impact and Statistics
This tragic accident marks the eighth traffic fatality on Hawaii island this year, compared to five fatalities at the same time last year. The community is left mourning the loss of a beloved individual and hoping for a swift recovery for those injured in the collision.
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