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HILO, Hawaii County, Hawaii, Oct. 23, 2026 — An elderly woman died Thursday night, October 22, after a vehicle struck her while she was crossing a Hilo street, according to authorities. The collision happened near the intersection of Kanoelehua Avenue and Kahaopea Street.
Witnesses told reporters the woman was crossing the road when she was hit by a white sedan. Police responded to the scene and found her fatally injured. A white blanket was placed over her body as officers worked the area, according to witness accounts.
The northbound lanes of Kanoelehua Avenue were shut down for several hours while officers investigated and documented the scene.
The circumstances that led to the collision are still under review. We offer our deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.
More on Crashes in Hilo, HI
This fatal crash happened at Kanoelehua Avenue and Kahaopea Street in Hilo, HI. We cover crashes across Hawaii County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Hawaii County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Many pedestrian crashes occur at or near intersections and crosswalks, where vehicle and foot traffic cross paths, though some happen mid-block when a pedestrian crosses outside a marked crossing.
Are pedestrian accidents more common at night?
Yes. Reduced visibility makes it harder for drivers to see people crossing, and a large share of pedestrian deaths nationally happen after dark.
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
If possible, call 911 immediately, stay as still as you can until medical help arrives, and ask any witnesses to stay and give a statement to police. Even if injuries seem minor at first, a medical evaluation is important since some injuries aren't immediately obvious.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, but both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for watching for one another, especially at night or in poor weather.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Hilo, Hawaii
If you witness a pedestrian crash, call 911 right away and, if it's safe, help keep other traffic from approaching the scene. Avoid moving an injured person unless they're in immediate danger. If you're a family member of someone involved, request the police report once it's filed and keep a record of any medical visits or treatment that follow. Giving investigators a clear account of what you saw, including vehicle direction and lighting conditions, can help them piece together what happened.
