Motorcyclist killed in Kona crash
A 19-year-old motorcyclist is dead following a three-vehicle crash Wednesday morning in North Kona.
Police on Thursday identified the victim as Kailua-Kona resident Justice Jayden Kawelu Kaawa.
Responding to a 9:28 a.m. report, Hawaii Police Department officers determined that a gray 2019 Toyota 4Runner SUV operated by a 64-year-old Kealakekua woman was making a left turn onto Mamalahoa Highway when it was struck by a southbound black 2001 Honda VT1100 motorcycle. The crash happened at the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Highway 180 (Old Mamalahoa Highway) in Honalo.
After striking the Toyota, Kaawa’s motorcycle collided with a silver 2016 Kia Sedona van operated by a 38-year-old Captain Cook woman, according to police. Kaawa was not wearing a helmet.
Neither driver was injured. A 17-year-old male passenger on the motorcycle was transported to the Kona Community Hospital for treatment of his injuries and is listed in stable condition.
Kaawa was also transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 3:49 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered and the Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent homicide investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash should contact Officer Jason Foxworthy at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229 or email at Jason.foxworthy@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This is the 19th traffic fatality this year compared to 12 at this time last year.
