Hawaiʻi Police Department to Increase Enforcement Efforts Along DKI Highway

The Hawaiʻi Police Department is significantly increasing selective enforcement operations along the Daniel K. Inouye (DKI) Highway in response to ongoing dangerous driving behaviors that continue to threaten public safety. With the goal of preventing serious crashes, injuries, and fatalities, officers will maintain a heightened enforcement presence focused on identifying and addressing hazardous violations, including speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and seat belt violations.

From January 1 through June 4, 2026, there have been three fatal crashes on DKI, resulting in five deaths, compared to no fatal crashes on DKI for the same period last year.

In the 155 days of 2026, Hawaiʻi Police Department officers conducted 162 selective enforcement operations along DKI Highway and contacted 1,256 drivers in an effort to improve roadway safety and reduce hazardous driving behaviors.

These unsafe driving behaviors significantly increase the likelihood of serious traffic collisions, injuries and the death of vehicle occupants. In fact, nine out of 10 most recent traffic fatalities, involved one or more of the following factors:

• Speeding
• Impaired driving
• Distracted driving
• Seatbelt violations

“Reckless and dangerous driving behaviors place everyone on our roadways at risk,” said Torey Keltner, program manager of the Traffic Services Section. “Our officers will continue proactive enforcement efforts along the DKI Highway corridor to improve driver compliance and help keep our communities safe.”

Motorists are reminded to obey posted speed limits, eliminate distractions while driving, always wear seatbelts, and never operate a vehicle while impaired.

“Traffic safety is not only about enforcing the rules; it’s about looking out for one another” said Deputy Police Chief Sherry Bird. “Every time you slow down, buckle your seatbelt, or put your phone away, you are making the choice to protect a neighbor, a friend, or a family member. Let’s work together to make sure everyone gets home to their ohana safely.”

The Hawaiʻi Police Department encourages the public to report dangerous driving behaviors by calling 911 in emergencies or contacting the department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.

Community members may also anonymously request that a violation letter be sent to a vehicle’s registered owner by emailing leanne.matsuo@hawaiipolice.gov. Requests should include a description of the violation, the vehicle description, license plate number, date and time of the incident, and the location where the violation occurred.