30 September 2023
Big Island police are investigating following a single-vehicle crash Sept. 29 in Hilo that killed a 59-year-old Mountain View man.
The man’s identity is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin.
Officers responded at about 7:15 p.m. Friday to a reported traffic collision on Railroad Avenue. Investigators determined that a 2001 Mazda multi-purpose vehicle traveling north, just before the intersection with Lanikaula Street, veered to the right onto a gravel shoulder area and went about 150 feet before striking a shipping container.
The Mountain View man who was driving was found unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to Hilo Medical Center and pronounced dead at 10:22 p.m.
Railroad Avenue was closed for several hours Friday night following the crash while police investigated.
Speed appears to be the primary factor in this investigation. An autopsy was ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
This is 14th fatal traffic collision of 2023 compared to 25 by this time last year.
Police ask anyone who might have witnessed the crash or might have information about it to contact Officer Jared Cabatu at 808-961-2339 or via email at [email protected]. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.