Hawaii island police alerted the public to avoid a section of Puainako Street in Hilo due to a crash that occurred on the roadway early today.

Maj. Sam Thomas of the Hawaii Police Department said a vehicle struck a traffic signal pole along the roadway. The driver attempted to flee after the crash but police detained him shortly after. He was taken to a hospital to be treated for a head injury.

Thomas said the vehicle was involved in a police pursuit in Puna Thursday night.

Additional details are pending.

Police said motorists should avoid Puanaiko Street between Kawili Street/Iwalani Street and Kanoelani Street for the next few hours.

Motorists heading to Waiakea Elementary School or Waiakea Intermediate School are advised to use Kinoole Street onto Puainako Street.