Hilo man killed in two-car crash

A 34-year-old Hilo man died from injuries suffered in a two-vehicle crash that occurred on Saturday morning on Highway 11 near the Glenwood Transfer Station.

The victim has been identified as Johnathan Hara of Hilo, according to the Hawaii Police Department.

Responding to a 6:44 a.m. call, police determined that a 2000 Honda two-door sedan that was heading south on Highway 11, attempted to pass a motor vehicle heading the same direction. An oncoming 2011 Toyota Tacoma pickup that was heading north, operated by a 60-year-old man from Pahala was struck by the Honda south of mile marker 17.

The operator and lone occupant of the Honda was unresponsive at the scene and was transported to the Hilo Medical Center, police said. He was pronounced dead at the Hilo Medical Center at 7:52 a.m.

The driver of the Toyota Tacoma and two other passengers were transported to Hilo Medical Center. The 60-year-old man was treated and released with minor injuries. Two Pahala women, ages 59 and 25, remain at the Hilo Medical Center and were listed in stable condition.

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

The Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Blayne Matsui of the Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit at 961-2339. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-2339 in Hilo.

This is the 11th traffic fatality this year compared to 13 at this time last year.