Hilo, Hawaiʻi — During the week of December 16-22, 2024, Hawaiʻi Island police arrested 19 motorists for driving under the influence (DUI) of an intoxicant. Among those arrested, seven were involved in traffic accidents, and two were under the age of 21.
Year-to-Date DUI Arrests
As of December 22, 2024, there have been 942 DUI arrests on Hawaiʻi Island, a slight increase of 1.3% compared to the 930 arrests during the same period last year.
Arrests by District (Weekly and Year-to-Date):
- Hilo: 11 (282 YTD)
- North Hilo: 0 (7 YTD)
- Hāmākua: 0 (4 YTD)
- South Kohala: 0 (70 YTD)
- North Kohala: 1 (24 YTD)
- Kona: 2 (342 YTD)
- Kaʻū: 0 (24 YTD)
- Puna: 5 (189 YTD)
Traffic Crashes and Fatalities
The Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Traffic Services Section reviewed crash data and noted an increase in major crashes and fatalities this year:
- Major Crashes: 963 (up 16% from 830 last year)
- Fatal Crashes: 25 (up 78.6% from 14 last year)
- Fatalities: 28 (up 86.7% from 15 last year)
Additional Notes on Fatal Crashes
The fatal crash data was recently revised to exclude an incident on November 9, 2024, that was initially misreported as a multiple crash.
In addition, there has been one non-traffic fatality (not occurring on a public roadway) this year, compared to none last year.
Ongoing Enforcement
To address these concerning trends, DUI roadblocks and patrols will continue across the island. Hawaiʻi Island police urge drivers to prioritize safety by avoiding impaired driving and remaining vigilant on the roads.
