Keola James DeCosta, 43, from Lawai, was sentenced to 15 years in prison following a fatal car accident on January 19, 2024. DeCosta was convicted of Negligent Homicide in the First Degree and Negligent Injury in the First Degree after his vehicle collided at 90 miles per hour with the car of Joseph Fernandez. The crash resulted in Fernandez's death and life-altering injuries to his granddaughter, according to the County of Kaua'i.
On Tuesday, DeCosta was sentenced to 15 years in prison, his driver's license was permanently revoked, and he was ordered to pay restitution. Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like noted DeCosta's prior traffic violations. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney H. Ramsey Ross secured the consecutive sentence, while Christian Enright represented DeCosta before Judge Kathleen N.A. Watanabe. In a statement, Like said, "Our hearts go out to Mr. Fernandez’s family and to his granddaughter. The reckless actions of Mr. DeCosta have done irreparable harm to this family," as reported by the County of Kaua'i.
The granddaughter of the deceased, who was also injured in the crash, spoke about the long-term effects of her injuries, including brain damage, broken ribs, punctured lungs, and severe memory loss. She said, "Every day, I face the reality of what I will never remember, the laughter and love that my papa would have provided." The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continues to encourage safe driving, including the use of designated drivers and seat belts. Local authorities also urge the community to report impaired drivers to the Kauai Police Department to help prevent similar incidents, as stated by the County of Kaua'i.
