(Update) Police Identify Man Killed in Hilo Collision

Hawaiʻi Island police have identified the man who died in the two-vehicle collision that occurred Thursday evening, Jan. 15, 2026, near the intersection of Highway 19 and Hikina Place in Hilo as 26-year-old Michael Taione of Maui.

Responding to a traffic collision at 6:23 p.m., investigators determined that a white 2017 Ford F150 pickup truck operated by Taione was traveling south, Hilo bound, on Highway 19 when it crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a black 2022 Chevy Silverado pickup truck operated by a 46-year-old Laupāhoehoe woman.

Taione was located unresponsive at the scene. Fire and medical personnel initiated lifesaving measures but was unable to revive him.  He was pronounced deceased at 6:57 p.m.

An autopsy was ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and is continuing this coroner’s inquest investigation. At this time, speed and alcohol are believed to be factors in this collision.

The operator of the Silverado was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center where she was  treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released.

Police ask that anyone who has information regarding this collision to please contact Officer Joshua Rodby-Tomas at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Joshua.Rodby-Tomas@hawaiicounty.gov.

This is the second traffic fatality of 2026 as compared to two traffic fatalities this same time last year.