(Update) Police Identify Driver Killed in Traffic Collision in Puna

Hawai’i Island police have identified the driver of the Honda CR-V that was involved in a fatal traffic collision that occurred early Monday afternoon, July 20, in the area of the 22-mile marker, on Highway 11 in Volcano as 76-year-old Laura Walker of Volcano.

Puna Patrol officers responded to reports of a traffic collision just before 2:30 p.m. and determined that a tan 2007 Honda CR-V, operated by Walker, was traveling northbound toward Hilo on Highway 11 when it crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a Volcano bound silver 2017 Dodge Ram operated by a 60-year-old Volcano man.

Walker was located unresponsive at the scene and subsequently pronounced deceased at 2:50 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of her death.

The operator of the Dodge Ram did not sustain any apparent injuries from the collision.

At this time, police do not believe speed, alcohol, or drugs to be contributing factors in this investigation.

If anyone has information regarding this collision they may contact Officer Joshua Rodby-Tomas at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Joshua.Rodbytomas@hawaiipolice.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

This is the 19th traffic fatality of 2026 compared to 14 this same time last year.