Hawai‘i Police Department
Traffic Enforcement Unit
Sergeant Chris Correia
Phone: 961-2391
Report No. 19-099323
Media Release
A male died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash that occurred on Tuesday evening (December 17) on Highway 11, near the 22-mile marker.
The 45-year-old male has been identified as Francis B. Makaiwi, of Hilo.
Responding to a 9:25 p.m. call, police determined that a 2018 Alfa Romeo Sport Utility Vehicle was heading South (Volcano-bound) on Highway 11, when it crossed a double-solid yellow line, striking a 2003 Mazda Passenger Van that was heading North (Hilo bound).
The driver of the Mazda Passenger Van was not responsive at the scene, and was transported to the Hilo Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead on December 18, 2019 at 12:35 a.m. The driver of the Alpha Romeo Sport Utility Vehicle, a 79-year-old male from Volcano was transported to Hilo Medical Center where he remains in stable condition.
Police believe inattention and alcohol are factors in the crash.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a Negligent Homicide investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident to contact Officer Clifford Antonio of the Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit at 961-2339. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo.
This is the 25th traffic fatality this year compared to 31 at this time last year.
