58-year-old James M. Cordova has been identified by police as the victim of a fatal traffic collision on Monday evening. This incident marks the 29th traffic fatality on Hawai‘i Island for the year, reflecting an increase in traffic-related deaths compared to the previous year, according to a police report.
Police have identified 36-year-old Michael L. Richardson as the driver of the 2018 Volkswagen GTI sedan involved in the collision with Cordova while both were traveling east on Kahakai Boulevard. According to the initial investigation, Richardson struck Cordova's blue mountain bike just west of Olao Street, resulting in fatal injuries. Cordova was pronounced dead shortly after at Hilo Benioff Medical Center. The incident occurred around 7:57 p.m. on Monday night. Richardson faces charges, including first-degree negligent homicide, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, and driving without motor vehicle insurance.
After being taken into custody, Richardson was released pending further investigation, including the results of toxicology tests, following an interrogation and consultation with the County Prosecutor’s Office. The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit is requesting the public’s assistance and asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. Officer Jerome Duarte can be reached at (808) 961-2339 or via email at [email protected]. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may contact Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300, as indicated in the police statement.
