The man has been positively identified as Kevin Kanoa’imipono Gladden.
Responding to a 5:55 a.m. call, police determined that Gladden was operating a blue 2017 Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck was heading south when it crossed the double solid yellow lines and struck a white 2016 Ford F-250 waste management pickup truck head on. Gladden was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 12:55 p.m.
The driver of the Ford pick-up truck, a 44-year-old Waikoloa man, and his 36-year-old female passenger from Kailua-Kona, were taken to Kona Community Hospital where they were treated and later released.
Police believe that speed and impairment are possible factors in the collision.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent homicide investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Jason Foxworthy at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229, or email at Jason.foxworthy@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This is the 23rd traffic fatality this year compared to 13 at this time last year.