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Waimea, HI (May 12, 2026) – A 59-year-old Waimea man died after a two-vehicle crash on Kawaihae Rd (Highway 19) near the 65-mile marker on Sunday, May 10, at approximately 1:22 p.m.
Sione Tilini was among three people outside a parked gold 2004 Toyota Camry on the shoulder of the road, changing a front tire. A black 2008 BMW 328i traveling eastbound veered off the road onto the south shoulder and struck the parked, unoccupied Camry. The impact caused the Toyota to fall onto Tilini, who was positioned near the passenger-side wheels at the time of the collision.
Tilini was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 2:47 p.m. Two others who were outside the Toyota — a 19-year-old man and an 11-year-old boy — were also struck when the parked car was pushed forward. Both were taken to the hospital with minor injuries and later released.
The 22-year-old Waimea man driving the BMW was taken to the hospital and remains in critical condition. He was arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide, negligent injury, driving without a license, no motor vehicle insurance, and operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant.
This crash marked the fourth traffic fatality on Hawaii Island within five days and the ninth of 2026. Authorities continue to investigate, and more details will be released as they become available. Our sincerest condolences go out to Sione Tilini’s family and all those who loved him.
What Happens When a Crash Occurs Near a Disabled Vehicle on a Hawaii Road Shoulder?
Roadside tire changes are one of the more dangerous situations a driver or passenger can face, particularly on high-speed highways in Hawaii. When a vehicle stops on the shoulder, those outside the car are exposed to passing traffic with very little protection. The risk increases significantly on roads where the speed limit is high and the shoulder is narrow.
Hawaii Island’s Kawaihae Rd is a well-traveled corridor that connects coastal and inland communities, seeing a mix of local and tourist traffic throughout the day. Drivers who veer onto the shoulder — whether due to impairment, distraction, or other factors — give roadside workers almost no time to react. Safety guidance consistently recommends that anyone stopped on a highway shoulder stay as far from the travel lanes as possible and use hazard lights and reflective markers when available.
