On June 23, 2021, at approximately 3:24 p.m., Hilo Patrol officers responded to a report of a single-vehicle collision resulting in the vehicle being submerged in the Wailoa Boat Harbor with an unconscious male driver still inside.

Officers arrived on the scene and assisted several bystanders who were able to secure a rope from the pier onto the vehicle just before it dropped completely into the water to try to slow the vehicle from sinking while attempting to gain the attention of the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle who appeared unresponsive.

Officers quickly entered the water and, with the help of Hawai’i Fire Department personnel, were able to pull the unresponsive driver through the open window to safety.

The male driver, a Hilo resident, was transported to the Hilo Medical Center for treatment where he regained consciousness and was otherwise uninjured.

The driver was later arrested for DUI, driving without a valid license, and other related traffic offenses as a result of the crash. He has been released pending further investigation.

There were no injuries or road closures as a result of this incident and the vehicle involved was recovered from the water and towed by Ken’s Towing.

The Hawai’i Police Department would like to extend our appreciation for the quick action and assistance from good Samaritans at the scene contributing to the successful outcome.

Anyone with information relating to this crash is asked to contact Officer Joshua Gouveia or Officer Sybastian Keltner at (808) 935-3311.