Motorcyclist killed in Puna crash

A 70-year-old Puna man died from injuries suffered in a vehicle-motorcycle crash Wednesday morning on Highway 130.

The victim was identified by the Hawaii Police Department as Nolan Remmers, of Pahoa.

Responding to a 9:30 a.m. call, police determined that a 2003 Chevrolet passenger van was attempting a left turn from Makuu Drive onto Highway 130. The passenger van failed to yield to a 2007 Suzuki motorcycle that was heading north (Hilo bound) on Highway 130, and the motorcycle subsequently struck the driver’s side of the passenger van.

The operator of the motorcycle was transported to the Hilo Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the passenger van, a 75-year-old man from Keaau was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he remains in stable condition.

Police believe inattention and misjudgment are factors in the crash. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident should contact Officer Erhard at (808) 961-2339.

This is the second traffic fatality this year compared with two at this time last year.