A Hawai‘i Island police officer is in a "guarded condition" after being struck by a vehicle yesterday while assisting a stranded motorist. The incident took place near the intersection of Kekuanaoa Street and Kanoelehua Avenue in Hilo, early in the morning at around 5:33 a.m. According to the Hawai‘i Police Department, the 27-year-old female officer, a four-year veteran of the force, suffered serious injuries, including head trauma and rib fractures.
Identified as 52-year-old Keola Mahi of Hilo, the driver of a 2023 Subaru Forester, was arrested for first-degree negligent injury following the incident where his vehicle struck the officer. After consulting the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Mahi was released pending an ongoing investigation. Authorities have stated they do not believe that alcohol or drug use were factors in the accident.
In light of the officer's severe injuries, the Hawai‘i Police Department's Office of Professional Standards has opened an administrative investigation, and their Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit has begun a negligent injury investigation. "This incident underscores the dangers officers face each day while working to protect and serve our community," Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna stated, emphasizing the importance of motorist awareness and caution around emergency personnel, as reported by the Hawai‘i Police Department.
The department has appealed to the public for anyone with information about the collision to come forward. Witnesses or those with pertinent details can reach out to Officer Jerome Duarte at (808) 961-2339 or via email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling (808) 961-8300.
