Crash claims life of Kona man
A 21-year-old Kailua-Kona man died following a two-vehicle collision on Wednesday near the intersection of Kealakaa and Kealakehe streets in North Kona.
The man was identified as Kalai Alohanamakana Lincoln.
Responding to a 6:54 p.m. call, police determined that a blue 2000 Toyota 4Runner heading north on Kealakaa Street was making a left turn onto Kealakehe Street when it was struck by Lincoln who was operating a red Honda Grom motorcycle heading south on Kealakaa Street without his headlights on. A Honda Grom is considered a “pocket-sized” motorcycle and its use requires a driver’s license to operate. Lincoln was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 7:35 p.m.
Police believe that speed is a factor in the crash. Lincoln was wearing a helmet.
The driver of the Toyota 4Runner, a 43-Kailua-Kona man, was not injured in the collision.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Dayson Taniguchi at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229 or email at dayson.taniguchi@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This is the 28th traffic fatality this year compared to 18 at this time last year.
