Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle traffic collision in Hilo, on Kalanianaole Street between Kauhane Avenue and Pua Avenue, Friday evening, March 29, 2024, that left a 26-year-old motorcyclist dead.   

Responding to a traffic collision at 11:39 p.m., police learned that a 2002 Toyota pickup was reversing out of a driveway onto Kalanianaole Street when it collided with a 2007 Honda motorcycle traveling west. A motorcycle helmet was located at the scene, however at this time it is unknown if it was being worn at the time of the collision.

The motorcyclist, a 26-year-old man from Hilo, was located unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased at 2:04 a.m. on Saturday, March 30. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

The motorcyclist’s identity is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin.

The operator of the pickup truck, 26-year-old Sterling Stroud from Volcano, was not injured as a result of the collision. He was arrested for first-degree negligent homicide and operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant. He is currently being held in custody at the Hilo Police Station pending further investigation.

The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and is continuing this investigation. At this time, police believe that impairment and speed appear to be the primary factors in the collision.

If anyone has information regarding this collision they may contact Officer Laurence Davis at (808) 961-2339, or via email at Laurence.Davis@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

This is the 12th traffic fatality in the 13 weeks of 2024 to date, compared to five traffic fatalities this time last year.