Rising traffic death toll prompts plea from Hawaii County police chief

Deaths from Hawaii island traffic crashes are mounting.

Twenty-five people have died thus far this year, exceeding the 22 fatalities for all of last year.

Four have died in the last two weeks alone. At this pace, Hawaii island could see death tolls reaching the high 30s.

Hawaii County Police Chief Harry Kubojiri is making a personal plea for Hawaii island motorists to drive with caution: “Try to anticipate erratic driving and be mentally prepared for unexpected dangers. Practice safe, defensive driving and help reduce needless loss of life.”