Police Investigating Hilo Collision That Critically Injured Hilo Man

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a two-vehicle traffic collision Friday evening, Oct. 9, 2026, that left an elderly Hilo man in critical condition.

At 8:37 p.m., officers responded to a call on Ponahawai Street between Komohana and Kapiolani Streets in Hilo. Police determined that a 2016 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was traveling up (mauka) Ponahawai Street when the vehicle crossed the centerline and struck a 2013 Toyota Corolla four-door sedan traveling down (makai) Ponahawai Street.

The 77-year-old male operator of the pickup truck was unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment where he is listed in critical condition. The 59-year-old female operator of the sedan was also transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center where she was being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

At this time, police do not believe that speed, alcohol and/or drugs are factors in this crash.

The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and assisted in the investigation. 

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to please contact Officer Brian Kohara at (808) 935-3311, or via email at Brian.Kohara@hawaiipolice.gov.  Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.