HILO, Hawaii (October 10, 2023) – A 17-year-old girl died in a fiery three-vehicle collision on Daniel K. Inouye Highway in South Hilo this morning.
Authorities identified the driver as Mackenzie Valentin of Hilo. The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. when Valentin lost control of her 2003 Toyota 4Runner while traveling west toward Kona. The vehicle hydroplaned into the east lane, colliding with a 2024 Ford F450 commercial truck.
The collision resulted in significant damage to both vehicles, igniting a fire in the Toyota. Firefighters from the Hawaii Fire Department arrived at the scene at 8:53 a.m. and contained the fire by 9:05 a.m., fully extinguishing it by 9:15 a.m.
Valentin was trapped inside the vehicle and was pronounced dead at Hilo Benioff Medical Center at 11:30 a.m. A 53-year-old man from Kailua-Kona, who was driving the Ford, reportedly extricated himself and was treated for minor injuries. A third vehicle, a minivan, skidded off the road with no reported injuries.
Police are investigating the scene. Authorities stated that speed and intoxication do not appear to be factors, but weather conditions may have contributed to the incident. This marks the 15th traffic fatality on the Big Island in 2023.
Anyone with information about the collision is encouraged to contact Officer Laurence Davis at 808-961-2339 or via email. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.