KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii – A fatal three-car crash occurred Sunday evening on Alii Drive, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.
At 9:28 p.m., police responded to a head-on collision near Kahaluu Beach Park. A 2012 Toyota Tacoma, driven by a 21-year-old woman from Hilo, was traveling northbound at a high speed.
While attempting to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone, the Tacoma entered the southbound lane and collided head-on with a 2010 Nissan Frontier operated by a 20-year-old man from Holualoa.
The Nissan Frontier, after the initial impact, veered onto the makai shoulder and struck a parked Ford Econoline van. The driver of the Tacoma was pronounced dead at Kona Community Hospital at 10:17 p.m. She has been identified as Hinanui T. Starr-Boyle.
A 25-year-old passenger in the Tacoma and the driver of the Nissan Frontier were transported to Kona Community Hospital, both listed in stable condition. The Frontier driver was arrested on suspicion of Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (OVUII).
Authorities reported that none of the vehicle occupants were wearing seat belts, and speed and impairment are believed to be contributing factors. The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit is conducting a coroner’s inquest investigation, and an autopsy has been ordered.
Police are asking witnesses or anyone with video footage of the incident to contact Officer John Harvey at (808) 326-4646, ext. 3229. Those wishing to remain anonymous can reach Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This incident marks the 18th traffic fatality on Hawaii Island in 2026, an increase from 14 fatalities at the same time last year.