(Update) Suspect in Kurtistown Fatality Released Pending Further Investigation

Hawai’i Island police have released the operator of a vehicle that struck a male pedestrian who died, following a Kurtistown traffic collision on Friday, May 16, 2025, in the area of the Orchidland Drive and 36th Avenue intersection.

Responding to the 7:22 p.m. call, police determined that a 2010 Jeep Wrangler multi-purpose vehicle operated by a 30-year-old man, later identified as Dallas Brooks, was traveling east on Orchidland Drive when it struck Robertson Sherwood who was on the roadway and not in a marked crosswalk. A witness related that prior to the impact, there were vehicles that had to swerve to avoid hitting the pedestrian who was in the middle of the roadway.

Robertson Sherwood was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center via ambulance where he succumbed to his injuries and pronounced deceased at 7:48 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

Brooks was not injured as a result of the collision. He was arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant and first-degree negligent homicide.

The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene. At this time, police believe that alcohol is a factor in the crash.

On Saturday May 17, 2025, after conferring with the Hawaii County Prosecutors Office, the East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit released Brooks pending further investigation.

A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated and if anyone has information regarding this collision they may contact Officer Joshua Rodby-Tomas at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Joshua.Rodby-Tomas@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

This is the 13th traffic fatality of 2025 as compared to 16 traffic fatalities this same time last year.