Hawaii island police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash on Mamalahoa Highway in Kona this morning.

According to police, an unidentified man died when the 2003 Honda motorcycle he was operating veered off the roadway and down a large embankment after the rider failed to negotiate a turn.

The man, who sustained head injuries, was transported to Kona Community Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Police believe speed and inattention were factors. The incident was reported at 10:47 a.m.

An autopsy has been ordered.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to call Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua at 326-4646, ext. 229. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona.

This is the 17th traffic fatality on the island this year, compared with 11 at the same time last year.