Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Friday, November 8, 2024 80° Today's Paper


Top News

Hawaii County police investigate fatal hit-and-run in Kau

Hawaii County police are searching for the driver of an unknown vehicle involved in the fatal hit-and-run crash of a pedestrian in Kau earlier today.

The pedestrian has been positively identified as Kevin Adonay Catellanos-Rodriguez, 25, of Kealakekua.

The collision happened on Mamalahoa Highway near the intersection of Kaalualu Road in Naalehu.

Police responded to a 3:59 a.m. call and investigators determined that an unknown vehicle, possibly a pickup truck or an SUV, struck Catellanos-Rodriguez who was in the middle of the northbound (Kona) lane. The vehicle fled the scene in an unknown direction.

In a news release, police said Catellanos-Rodriguez was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 10:28 a.m.

Under state law, failure to render aid to an individual who is injured or killed in a traffic collision is a Class B felony that may be punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.

The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent homicide investigation. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Officer Dayson Taniguchi at (808) 326-4646, ext. 229, or email at dayson.taniguchi@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

This marked the fifth traffic fatality this year compared to two at the same time last year.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.