By Crash News Writer 
Hilo, HI (October 11, 2026) – A 77-year-old man was critically injured Friday evening, October 9, following a two-vehicle collision on Ponahawai Street between Komohana Street and Kapiolani Street in Hilo. A second driver also sustained injuries in the accident.
According to the Hawaii Department of Public Safety, statewide public safety information is available through the agency. Details of this collision were released by the Hawaii Police Department.
Officers responded to the crash at approximately 8:37 p.m. Investigators reported that a 2016 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was traveling uphill on Ponahawai Street when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2013 Toyota Corolla sedan traveling downhill.
The 77-year-old man driving the Tacoma was found unresponsive at the scene. Emergency personnel transported him to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition.
The Corolla’s driver, a 59-year-old woman, was also transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Police said they did not believe speeding, alcohol, or drugs contributed to the collision.
The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to assist with the investigation.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the accident to contact Officer Brian Kohara at (808) 935-3311. Anonymous information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
Serious car accidents can leave injured individuals facing extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation expenses, lost income, and uncertainty about their recovery. When a collision results in critical injuries, the financial and emotional effects may extend to the injured person’s family.
Anyone involved in a serious accident should seek appropriate medical attention, follow treatment recommendations, and preserve documentation related to the collision.
If you are searching for a car accident near me or researching a car accident near Hilo, understanding Hawaii’s insurance requirements and personal injury laws can help clarify your legal options.
Reviewing the car accident laws in Hawaii can provide information about liability, insurance coverage, and deadlines for pursuing compensation.
An official car accident report may also help document important details about the collision, including vehicle positions, roadway conditions, witness statements, and investigative findings.
Whether you are researching a car accident near me or seeking assistance following a car accident near Hilo, an attorney can evaluate the available evidence and explain whether an injury claim may be appropriate.
Taking action within the applicable deadlines can help preserve evidence and protect your opportunity to pursue compensation for qualifying medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by the Hawaii Police Department and published by local news sources. Additional findings may become available as investigators continue reviewing the collision.
- A 77-year-old man sustained critical injuries in the crash.
- A 59-year-old woman was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Both injured drivers were transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center.
- Police reported that speed, alcohol, and drugs were not suspected factors.
- The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit is assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Individuals seeking an official car accident report should contact the Hawaii Police Department for information about requesting available accident records.
For additional information about serious injury claims, insurance requirements, and legal procedures, review our frequently asked questions in Hawaii.
Injured individuals and their families can also explore our accident resources in Hawaii for additional guidance.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Information is based on publicly available reports at the time of publication and may change as authorities release additional findings. Readers should consult qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this information. Learn more by reviewing our disclaimer.
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a motor vehicle collision, contact a Hawaii personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and potential compensation.