Police are investigating a fatal traffic collision that killed a motorcyclist Tuesday afternoon in the area between the 4- and 5-mile marker of Highway 132 in Pahoa.
Officers responding to a 4:08 report of a traffic collision determined that a man driving a 2009 Kawasaki motorcycle was traveling east on Highway 132, crossed the double solid yellow line, and struck a westbound 2001 tandem dump truck head-on.
Witnesses on scene stated that the motorcyclist had been passing vehicles and speeding prior to the crash.
The man riding the motorcycle was ejected and located unresponsive on the road’s shoulder. He was taken to Hilo Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 8:13 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The man driving the dump truck was uninjured.
Police investigating the traffic collision have determined that speed and inattention are factors. It appeared that the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet. Police have not determined if alcohol and/or drugs are factors at this time.
The name of the motorcyclist is being withheld pending positive identification and the notification of next of kin.
This is the 15th official traffic fatality of 2021 compared to 12 fatalities during this same time period last year.
Potential witnesses are asked to contact Officer Blayne Matsui at 961-2339 or Blayne.Matsui@HawaiiCounty.gov. Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.