A fatal motorcycle collision occurred on Kahakai Boulevard in Pahoa at approximately 5:27 p.m. on Wednesday.
According to authorities, 30-year-old Korey Palmerton was riding a Honda CBR600F motorcycle mauka on Kahakai Boulevard when a makai-bound 2006 Toyota Camry, driven by 36-year-old Kade Smith, attempted to make a left turn onto Niuhi Street. The motorcycle collided with the sedan.
Emergency responders pronounced Palmerton dead at Hilo Benioff Medical Center at 6:18 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. The driver, Smith, suffered no injuries and was arrested on suspicion of DUI, first-degree negligent homicide, driving with a suspended license, and driving without insurance.
Smith is in custody at Hilo Police Station as the investigation continues. Police indicated that speed, alcohol and/or drugs, and inattention may be factors in the incident. Authorities reported that Palmerton was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Palmerton’s death marks the 14th traffic fatality of 2026, compared to 13 fatalities at this time last year.
Anyone with information regarding the crash is urged to contact Officer Jerome Duarte at (808) 961-2339 or Jerome.Duarte@hawaiipolice.gov, or the department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.