Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred shortly after 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 23, 2021, on Ainaola Drive in Hilo.

When Hilo patrol officers responded to a report of a traffic accident on Ainaola Drive between Komohana and Mikokoi Streets they discovered that a green Toyota truck traveling southwest (mauka) on Ainaola Drive crossed the center line and sideswiped a silver Ram truck traveling in the opposite direction. The Toyota truck then struck several parked vehicles on Mikokoi Street before coming to a stop. The male driver of the Toyota truck was transported by Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel to Hilo Medical Center and later died.

The victim’s name is not being released at this time pending positive identification. The three occupants of the Ram truck were not injured.

Hawaii Police Department’s Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing this investigation. Ainaola Drive between Komohana Street and Haihai Street remains closed at this time. Police appreciate the community’s patience while the road is closed and they conduct their investigation.