A deadly evening crash on Kahakai Boulevard in Pāhoa has left a 30-year-old motorcyclist dead and another local man in custody on suspicion of driving under the influence, according to police. The rider, identified as Pāhoa resident Korey Palmerton, was rushed to a Hilo hospital after the collision and later pronounced dead. The driver of the car involved was arrested at the scene and remains locked up as investigators sort through what happened.
How Police Say the Crash Unfolded
According to the Hawaiʻi Police Department, officers were called out at about 5:27 p.m. on Wednesday after reports of a serious collision on Kahakai Boulevard. Investigators say a Honda CBR600F was heading mauka on the roadway when it struck a 2006 Toyota Camry that was attempting a left turn onto Niuhi Street.
Palmerton was found unresponsive at the scene, police said. He was transported to the Hilo hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 6:18 p.m. An autopsy has been ordered to confirm the exact cause of death. Investigators say speed, alcohol and or drugs, and inattention are possible factors in the crash, and noted that Palmerton was not wearing a helmet.
Driver Booked on DUI and Homicide Counts
As reported by the Honolulu Star‑Advertiser, the Camry driver has been identified as 36-year-old Pāhoa resident Kade Smith. Police arrested and booked Smith on multiple counts, including operating a vehicle under the influence and first-degree negligent homicide.
Investigators also allege that Smith was behind the wheel despite a license suspension tied to a prior DUI case, and that the car he was driving had no insurance. Smith is being held at the Hilo Police Station as the investigation continues.
How This Crash Fits Into Bigger Island Trends
Per the Hawaiʻi Police Department, the collision is Hawaiʻi County’s 14th traffic fatality of 2026, compared with 13 at the same point last year. State traffic data show that motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles continue to make up a notable share of deadly crashes across the islands, a stubborn risk that often plays out on rural stretches like those in Puna.
For a closer look at how these fatalities break down by county and vehicle type, statewide figures are available from the State Department of Transportation.
Ongoing Investigation and How to Share Tips
An autopsy is pending and the Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing its investigation into the crash. Police are asking anyone who may have been in the area or has information about the incident to contact Officer Jerome Duarte at (808) 961-2339 or by email at [email protected], as reported by the Star‑Advertiser.
Tipsters can also reach the department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.
