Police open negligent homicide investigation into fatal Christmas Eve crash on Hawaii Island
HILO (HawaiiNewsNow) – One woman was killed and another was taken into custody after a Christmas Eve crash in Hilo.
Hawaii Island police opened a negligent homicide investigation into a fatal motor vehicle collision on Wednesday evening, Dec. 24.
Officers responded to the scene of a two-vehicle collision, involving a Tacoma and Mazda convertible, shortly before 7:30 p.m., near mile marker 13 on Daniel K. Inouye Highway.
According to police, the truck was heading east when it reportedly crossed the center line, striking the oncoming convertible head-on.
The driver of the convertible was found unresponsive at the scene.
She was taken to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead at 7:59 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine her exact cause of death.
Police are waiting to identity the victim until they can confirm the identity and notify the family.
The Tacoma driver, a 34-year-old woman from Hilo, sustained minor injuries and was also taken to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment.
Upon release from the hospital, she was arrested on suspicion of first-degree negligent homicide, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, and reckless driving.
Smith remains in custody as the investigation continues.
At this time, police believe speed, alcohol and/or drugs, and reckless driving were the primary factors in the crash.
Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact Officer Johnathan Rapoza at (808) 961-2339 or via email at [email protected].
To make an annonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
This is the 21st traffic fatality on Hawaii Island in 2025, compared to 28 traffic fatalities this same time last year.
Copyright 2025 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
