PAHOA, HI — A motorcycle accident on Kahakai Boulevard claimed the life of a 30-year-old man Wednesday evening.
Emergency services responded shortly before 5:30 p.m. to the scene, where the victim, identified as Korey Palmerton from Pahoa, was found unresponsive. He was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center and pronounced dead at 6:18 p.m.
According to police, Palmerton was traveling west when a 36-year-old driver of a Toyota Camry, heading east, attempted a left turn onto Niuhi Street, leading to the collision. The sedan driver was not injured.
Authorities arrested the sedan driver for Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant, First-Degree Negligent Homicide, and lack of insurance. He remains in custody at the Hilo Police Station as the investigation continues.
Police believe speed, alcohol or drugs, and inattention contributed to the crash. Palmerton was not wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. An autopsy has been ordered to establish the cause of death.
Authorities are interviewing witnesses and ask anyone with information to contact Officer Jerome Duarte at (808) 961-2339 or via email. Tips can also be submitted to the non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.
This incident marks the 14th traffic fatality on Hawaii Island in 2026, compared to 13 fatalities at the same point last year.