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Hilo, HI (January 16, 2026) – A man in his 20s was killed Thursday evening in a head-on crash that prompted a full closure of Highway 19 near Lali Pl in Hilo, according to local sources.
The crash occurred just after 6:20 p.m. on Hawaii Belt Rd, shortly before the 6-mile marker. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, where they found two vehicles involved in a serious head-on collision. Despite life-saving efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries on-site.
The Hawaii Police Department closed the highway between Lali Pl and Paukaa Dr for several hours while investigators processed the scene and cleared the wreckage. Authorities have not released further details about what may have caused the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The roadway has since reopened. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the young man who lost his life in this tragic crash.
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