79
DARYL LEE / SPECIAL TO THE STAR-ADVERTISER / 2015
Hawaii island police said a 22-year-old Captain Cook man died following a two-vehicle collision this morning on Highway 11.
A 22-year-old Captain Cook man died following a two-vehicle collision this morning on Highway 11, Hawaii island police said.
The victim was identified as Kevin Kanoa’imipono Gladden.
Emergency responders were called to the scene at a 5:55 a.m. Police said Gladden was driving a 2017 Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck south on Highway 11 when it crossed the double solid yellow lines and struck a white 2016 Ford F-250 waste management pick-up truck head on just north of the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Napo‘opo‘o Road in South Kona.
The driver of the Ford, a 44-year-old Waikoloa man, and his 36-year-old female passenger from Kailua-Kona were taken to Kona Community Hospital where they were treated and released.
Police said Gladden was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead at 12:55 p.m.
“Speed and impairment are possible factors in the collision,” a police news release said.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Police have opened a negligent homicide investigation and is asking anyone who witnessed the collision to contact Officer Jason Foxworthy at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229, or email at Jason.foxworthy@hawaiicounty.gov. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This is the 23rd Big Island traffic fatality this year compared with 13 at this time last year, police said.
By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.
Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.