PUNA, HAWAI‘I – January 29, 2025** – In a tragic update, Hawai‘i Island police have confirmed that Jahnya Serquina-Octubre, a 21-year-old pedestrian from Mountain View, has succumbed to her injuries following a traffic collision on January 22.
The incident occurred on Highway 11 near the 10 mile-marker in Kurtistown at approximately 7:56 p.m. According to police reports, Serquina-Octubre was struck by a 2016 Honda CRV driven by a 74-year-old man from Mountain View while traveling in the northbound direction toward Hilo. Witnesses on the scene reported seeing her on the roadway moments before the impact. Despite immediate medical attention, Serquina-Octubre was unresponsive and was rushed to Hilo Benioff Medical Center in critical condition. Tragically, she was pronounced dead on January 24 at 12:16 p.m. after being kept on life support until January 28, 2025, when her life support was withdrawn. An autopsy has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of death.
The driver of the Honda CRV was unharmed in the collision, and initial investigations indicated that neither impairment nor speed were contributing factors. However, due to the circumstances surrounding the incident, police have since reclassified the investigation as a case of negligent homicide. The East Hawai‘i Traffic Enforcement Unit is actively investigating the incident, and multiple witnesses have already provided valuable information. Police are urging anyone with additional details to come forward.
For those with information regarding this collision, Officer Johnathan Rapoza can be contacted at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Johnathan.Rapoza@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may reach out to Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This incident marks the third traffic fatality on Hawai‘i Island in 2025, equaling the total number of fatalities recorded at this time last year. As the community mourns the loss of Jahnya Serquina-Octubre, local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
A gofundme has been set up by a family member. It can be accessed by clicking here.
