Media release from Hawaii County Police Department

A 57-year-old Glenwood man died Thursday (October 11) from injuries he sustained in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 11 in front of Hirano Store.

Responding to a 4:35 p.m. call, traffic investigators determined that a 2001 Ford four-door station wagon was traveling north on Highway 11 when the male driver made a left turn into Hirano Store.

A 33-year old woman from Glenwood was following from behind in a 2005 Dodge van when she crossed the centerline to avoid a collision but struck the Ford station wagon.

Police are investigating whether the driver of the Ford station wagon made an abrupt turn into Hirano Store.

The male driver of the Ford station wagon was dead at the scene. Fire Department rescue personnel took the woman to Hilo Medical Center.

It is unknown at this time if speed, alcohol or drugs were involved.

The driver of the Ford station wagon was not wearing his seat belt. The female driver was wearing hers.

A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated and an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

The name of the man is being withheld pending positive identification.

Police ask that anyone with information about the crash call Officer Tuckloy Aurello at 961-8119.

This is the 32nd traffic fatality on the Big Island this year compared with 16 at this time last year.