Family of teen killed in Pali Highway crash speaks out
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The family of Kalena Abelmann, a teen who died in a crash on the Pali Highway on Thursday, is speaking out for the first time.
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Family friend Joy Monahan released a statement on behalf of the Abelmanns Saturday and said their “hearts are broken from the sudden and tragic loss of Kalena.”
Police said the 16-year-old was speeding when she hit a concrete barrier, went airborne, dropped about 50 feet and was thrown from her vehicle into the ravine below.
Abelmann grew up in the Hawaii Kai community, and her family said that at 16, she was preparing to graduate a year early to pursue a career with the FBI.
“She had her future mapped out and was well on her way to executing it. She loved exploring the world and discovering treasures in any second-hand stores she could find, and she found joy in serving at the nearby food bank. Her kindness, laughter, free spirit, and loving heart will leave a lasting impact on the many lives she touched,” Monahan said.
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Donations sent to the family’s GoFundMe will fund the funeral and family needs.
“Most of all, Kalena was a deeply loved daughter, sister, and friend. We know this from the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, prayers, and monetary donations sent to the GoFundMe set up by her cousin Madeline,” Monahan added.
The statement said any funds raised in excess of funeral services and family needs will be donated to some of Abelmann’s favorite causes.
At this time, the family is preparing for Abelmann’s memorial service and asks for time and space to heal.
“We are so grateful for the aloha our community has shown the Abelmann ohana,” Monahan said.
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View more photos of Abelmann from her family here:
Watch the full statement here:
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