Police Investigating Traffic Incident in Volcano Involving 11-Year-Old Boy

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a traffic collision that seriously injured an 11-year-old boy in Volcano on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Responding to a reported traffic incident near the intersection of Maile Way and Alanui Iiwi Road at 7:34 p.m., police determined that the 11-year-old boy was riding in the bed of a pickup truck that was towing a food wagon.

During the incident, the boy lost his balance and fell from the bed of the pickup truck before being run over by the food wagon being towed by the vehicle.

The boy sustained serious injuries and was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently transported to Kapiolani Children’s Hospital on Oahu for further medical treatment.

The pickup truck and food wagon were recovered by police as evidence pending further examination.

Police believe that speed and impairment are not factors in this investigation, and no arrests have been made at this time.

Police remind motorists that riding in the bed of a pickup truck presents significant safety risks. As of June 5, 2026, Hawaii state law (HRS 291-14), prohibits operators from carrying passengers under 16 years of age from riding in the bed of a pickup truck. Police encourage all motorists to ensure passengers ride in designated seating positions and are wearing a seat belt whenever a vehicle is in operation.

The Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing this negligent injury investigation. Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has additional information to please

contact Sergeant Keith Nacis at (808) 935-3311, or via email at keith.nacis@hawaiipolice.gov.