The man has been positively identified as Isaac Gideon.
Responding to a 2:04 a.m. call, police determined that a white 1996 Honda Accord heading south ran off of the roadway and lost control. The vehicle then struck several large rocks and ejected the driver. Gideon was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 8:53 a.m.
He was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the incident. Police believe that speed and impairment are possible factors in the crash.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and is asking that 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 19th traffic fatality this year compared to 13 at this time last year.