KAHULUI, HI – A Makawao woman died in a motorcycle crash in Kahului on Sunday, July 6, at approximately 5:20 p.m.
According to authorities, the collision occurred at the intersection of Wahinepio Avenue and Keopuolani Parkway. A white Kia Soul, operated by a 36-year-old woman from Kahului, was making a turn when it struck a black Yamaha motorcycle traveling west on Wahinepio Avenue.
The motorcyclist, identified as 33-year-old Riana Lee, was ejected and sustained life-threatening injuries. She was transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center, where she later died.
Authorities confirmed that Lee was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. The driver of the Kia and her 56-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries but were treated and released at the scene.
Emergency responders noted that the airbags in the Kia deployed during the crash. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities yet to determine the roles of speed, alcohol, or drugs.
This incident marks the 13th traffic fatality in Maui County this year, compared to eight at the same time in 2022.