Police Identify Driver Killed in DKI Highway Traffic Collision

Hawai‘i Island police have identified the driver of the Toyota that was involved in a fatal traffic collision that occurred Thursday morning, June 4, 2026, on Daniel K. Inouye (DKI) Highway near the 18-mile marker in Hilo.  She has been identified as 17-year-old Mackenzie Valentin of Hilo.

Responding to a reported traffic collision at 8:34 a.m., police determined that a 2003 Toyota 4-Runner multi-purpose vehicle, which was being operated by Valentin, was traveling west (Kona bound) on DKI Highway when the she lost control while negotiating a curve. The Toyota hydroplaned into the east (Hilo bound) lane and was subsequently broadsided by a 2024 Ford F450 commercial truck. The collision caused major damage to both vehicles, and the Toyota subsequently caught on fire as a result of the collision.

Valentin was trapped within the vehicle and unresponsive when responding personnel arrived. Fire personnel extinguished the fire and she was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center and pronounced deceased at 11:30 a.m.

The driver of the Ford, a 53-year-old Kailua-Kona man, was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center and treated for minor injuries.

At this time, police do not believe speed or intoxication are factors; however, weather may have played a factor in the collision.

The Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and is continuing this investigation.

Police ask anyone who has additional information regarding this collision, to please contact Officer Laurence Davis at (808) 961-2339, or via email at Laurence.Davis@hawaiipolice.gov.  Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.