Five people were hospitalized following a two-car crash Tuesday morning on Daniel K. Inouye Highway in East Hawaii.
Responding to the 8:32 a.m. report, Hawaii Police Department officers determined that a white 2012 Ford E350 cargo van traveling east (Hilo bound) on the highway veered into the oncoming westbound lane while trying to overtake another vehicle near mile marker 17 in Hilo.
The van tried to pull back into the eastbound lane when a white 2020 Jeep Gladiator truck traveling in the opposite direction struck the van head-on.
At the time of the collision, there was heavy rain and fog in the area.
The operator of the cargo van, a 41-year-old man from Captain Cook, was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he was listed as stable but critical condition. He was scheduled to be transported to The Queen;s Medical Center on Oahu for further treatment.
The operator of the Jeep, a 44-year-old woman from Virginia, was also transported to Hilo Medical Center where she is listed in critical condition and undergoing surgery for her injuries.
Three minors in the vehicle were also transported to Hilo Medical Center for care. The boys, ages 14, 12 and 10, were listed in stable condition.
Police believe that speed and inattention are primary factors in the collision, but do not believe alcohol or drugs contributed to the crash.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash should contact Officer Clifford Antonio at (808) 961-2339 or via email Clifford.Antonio@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.