2-vehicle crash marks Hawaii Island’s 19th traffic fatality of 2026

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hawaii Island police are investigating a deadly two-vehicle crash in Kau early Saturday morning.

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The collision happened around 12:50 a.m. near the 76-mile marker of Highway 11. Police dispatchers initially received an automated iPhone crash alert, followed by several 911 calls.

Investigators say a Toyota Highlander was turning onto the eastbound lane from Kohala Boulevard when an eastbound Toyota Tacoma approached at a high speed. The Tacoma appeared to swerve into the westbound lane to avoid the Highlander, but struck it. Both vehicles then hit the guardrail, causing the Tacoma to overturn several times.

A passenger in the Tacoma, identified as 51-year-old Stephanie Ann Mello of Ocean View, was ejected from the vehicle. She was later pronounced dead at Kona Community Hospital.

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The Tacoma’s 52-year-old male driver and the Highlander’s 60-year-old female driver were hospitalized in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries. Police said the occupants of the Tacoma were not wearing seatbelts, and both speed and alcohol are believed to be contributing factors.

The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has opened a negligent homicide investigation. This marks the 19th traffic fatality on Hawaii Island this year, compared to 17 at this time last year.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Adam Roberg at (808) 326-4646, ext. 3229.

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