A late-night head-on collision on Kunia Road in Waipahu has claimed the life of a motorcyclist, officials said, marking Oʻahu’s 77th traffic fatality of 2025. Emergency Medical Services took the rider to an area hospital in critical condition, where he later died, while the occupants of the other vehicle were not hurt at the scene.
According to Hawaii News Now, the crash happened at about 10:25 p.m. last Saturday near the intersection of Kunia and Plantation roads. Investigators say the 37-year-old rider was traveling southbound when he lost control, crossed into the northbound lane and hit a vehicle driven by a 33-year-old man. The impact threw the motorcyclist onto the grassy shoulder. He was taken by EMS in critical condition and later pronounced dead. Hawaii News Now reports he was wearing a helmet, and investigators say it is not yet known whether speed, drugs or alcohol were contributing factors.
Investigation Underway
The Honolulu Police Department’s Traffic Division and Vehicular Homicide Section handle fatal and critical collisions and post updates on their traffic-media page. Honolulu Police Department notes that Vehicular Homicide Section personnel will update information as it becomes available while the investigation moves forward.
Rising Toll on Oʻahu Roads
This collision brings Oʻahu’s 2025 traffic death toll to 77 so far, up from 47 at the same point last year, as per Hawaii News Now. Local officials have pushed for changes along the corridor this year. In July, the Department of Transportation lowered speed limits on parts of Kunia Road. The change was reported by Hoodline and HDOT.
Kunia Road's Crash History
Kunia Road has been the site of multiple serious collisions in recent years, including a December 2024 hit-and-run that killed a motorcyclist and shut down the roadway for an extended investigation. Star-Advertiser coverage of that incident shows why safety measures and enforcement on the corridor remain a priority.
How to Help
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information is asked to contact Honolulu Police Department’s Traffic Division at (808) 723-3413. The department’s Traffic Division page explains that the Vehicular Homicide Section investigates fatal crashes and provides media updates. As investigators work to piece together what happened on Kunia Road, officials are again urging drivers and riders to slow down, avoid impairment and give extra space to motorcycles on island roads.
