HILO, Hawaii (Island News) – A two-vehicle collision on Ponahawai St. resulted in the death of a 77-year-old man on October 9, 2026.
Authorities identified the victim as Joseph Gomes of Hilo, who was pronounced dead at 2:33 p.m. on Wednesday following the incident.
The collision occurred at approximately 8:37 p.m. when Gomes, traveling westbound on Ponahawai St., crossed the centerline and struck an eastbound vehicle.
Emergency responders found Gomes unresponsive at the scene. He was initially transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center before being medevacked to Queen's Medical Center on Oahu for further treatment.
The other driver, a 59-year-old woman, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was later released from the hospital.
Police reported that speed, alcohol, and drugs were not suspected factors in the crash. This incident marks Hawaii Island's 27th traffic fatality of the year, an increase from 17 at the same time in 2025.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing.