Two men were killed and a third man hospitalized following a single-vehicle early Sunday in South Kohala.
Responding to a 3:25 a.m. Sunday call, police determined that a gray 2014 Jeep Cherokee, containing the three men, was heading north on Queen Kaahumanu Highway when it veered off of the roadway and struck a large metal traffic light post near Waikoloa Road.
The vehicle then caught fire, trapping two of the men within the vehicle. The two trapped men were transported to the Kona Community Hospital where they were later pronounced dead at 8:07 a.m.
The third vehicle occupant, a 27-year-old Honokaa man, was able to escape the vehicle. He was transported to the North Hawaii Community Hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Police believe that speed and impairment are possible factors in the crash.
Autopsies have been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. Positive identification is pending via dental records and contacting the next of kin.
Anyone who witnessed the crash should contact Officer Adam Roberg at (808) 326-4646, ext. 229, or email at adam.roberg@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
These are the fourth and fifth traffic fatalities this year compared to seven at this time in 2022.