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South Kohala, HI (February 22, 2026) – A three-year-old girl died Friday evening after being struck by a vehicle inside a residential complex parking lot in South Kohala. The incident occurred around 7:12 p.m. on February 20.
Emergency units responded to reports of a child hit by a vehicle. Investigators said a 26-year-old woman was reversing in the parking lot. The vehicle struck the child, leaving her critically injured.
The girl was taken to Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Officials stated that speed, alcohol, and drugs are not believed to be factors in the collision.
The crash took place within a private parking area and does not impact the island’s year-to-date roadway fatality count. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Parking Lot Crashes Can Be Especially Dangerous for Young Children
Parking lot accidents often happen at lower speeds, but they can still result in severe injuries, especially for young children. Drivers may focus on other vehicles, parking spaces, or pedestrians walking nearby, making it harder to notice a small child who suddenly moves behind a vehicle.
Children are shorter and may fall below the driver’s line of sight, particularly when a vehicle is reversing. Even vehicles equipped with mirrors and cameras can have blind spots.
Residential complexes and shopping areas tend to have steady foot traffic. Young children may move quickly and unpredictably. Drivers backing up in these areas are encouraged to check mirrors carefully, look over their shoulders, and move slowly to reduce the risk of a tragic collision.
