Available 
Hilo, HI (May 6, 2026) – Two men were killed Tuesday, May 5, in a head-on collision on Daniel K. Inouye Highway on Hawaii Island. Emergency units responded at about 11 a.m. to reports of a serious crash near the 26-mile marker in North Hilo.
The collision involved a 2011 Toyota Corolla sedan traveling east and a 2016 Hyundai Tucson heading west. Reports indicate the Toyota attempted to overtake another vehicle before striking the oncoming SUV head-on.
Paramedics treated the Hyundai driver, a 34-year-old man from Virginia, at the scene. He was later pronounced dead at 11:38 a.m.
The Toyota driver, identified as 70-year-old Todd Matsushita of Hilo, was found unresponsive at the scene. He was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 12:28 p.m.
Speed and reckless driving are believed to have contributed to the crash. The highway was closed in both directions for several hours as emergency units managed the scene and gathered evidence.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased.
What Is Commonly Examined After a Severe Head-On Crash?
After a severe head-on crash, early reporting usually focuses on the basic timeline of events, including the time, road conditions, and direction of travel for each vehicle involved. These details help establish how the collision may have occurred.
Vehicle damage is often reviewed closely, as it can indicate impact speed and point of contact. Investigators may also look at skid marks, debris patterns, and roadway visibility to understand driver actions before the crash.
Medical findings are also reviewed when fatalities occur, helping confirm the timing and severity of injuries. In some cases, witness accounts or nearby traffic footage can provide additional context about what happened moments before impact.
Over time, all collected information is combined to build a clearer picture of the incident and how it unfolded.
