Driver in accident had faced arrest

The driver who survived Sunday’s two-car crash in Upcountry Maui that killed five passengers in his vehicle was wanted on a bench warrant for failing to appear in Wailuku District Court to be sentenced for driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Libert K. Qalivere, 21, was admitted to Maui Memorial Medical Center after the crash in Kula Sunday morning. He was released from the hospital Wednesday.

Qalivere pleaded no contest on July 15, 2011, to driving under the influence of an intoxicant, according to state court records, and his driver’s license was revoked.

He failed to appear for sentencing on Aug. 18, 2011, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest, court records said.

Qalivere also had convictions on two speeding violations, in 2010 and 2011.

Maui police said investigators suspect speed and alcohol may have contributed to Sunday’s crash but are still investigating the incident.

Those killed were Annastachia Cruz-Kalua, 19, and Karl Barrack, 20, both of Pukalani; Remington Taylor Redwell, 20, and Steven R. Shaw, 20, both of Lahaina; and Ambrose Momoa, 20, of Wai­ehu.

Qalivere was driving a Dodge Neon north on Kula Highway when it spun out of control, crossed the center line and hit an oncoming Suzuki Aerio near Noholoa Place.

The three people in the Aerio were hurt but did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Friends said the six in the Neon were returning from a camping trip to Kaupo and were very tired, according to MauiNow.com.