23-year-old Erica Shay Pukana Aloha Camacho-Paishon of Kailua-Kona died following a two-vehicle collision that occurred approximately .3 miles north of the 76 mile marker on the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway in South Kohala early yesterday morning.
Police determined that a black 2017 Toyota 4Runner rear ended a white 2018 Isuzu Box truck heading south on Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway that was operated by a 70-year-old Kamuela man. After the Toyota 4Runner struck the Isuzu box truck, the Toyota 4Runner then went off the west shoulder and struck a lava embankment.
Camacho-Paishon was transported to Kona Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The driver of the Isuzu box truck was not injured in the collision.
Police believe that speed and impairment are possible factors in the crash. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a negligent homicide investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Adam Roberg at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229 or via email at adam.roberg@hawaiicounty.gov.