Two elderly women tragically lost their lives in a traffic collision in Waikoloa, Hawaii. According to the report, the incident occurred on Saturday, March 30, 2024, when a blue 2020 Kia Soul SUV crossed over the center line and struck a silver 2024 Chevrolet Blazer SUV head-on.
The driver of the Kia, 72-year-old Lynn Capell of Waimea, was pronounced dead at North Hawaii Community Hospital. The right rear passenger of the Chevrolet, 79-year-old Eugenia Taylor from Alabama, was also pronounced dead after being transported to Kona Community Hospital.
In response to the crash, a third vehicle veered off the road onto lava rock to avoid the collision. Fortunately, the occupants of that vehicle were uninjured.
Authorities suspect that speed and inattention were contributing factors to the tragic incident. Autopsies have been ordered to determine the exact causes of death.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has launched an investigation and is seeking witnesses to the collision. Officer Ansel Robinson can be contacted at (808) 326-4646, ext. 229, or via email at ansel.robinson@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who wish to remain anonymous can provide information through Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
The deaths of these two women mark the 13th and 14th traffic fatalities in the 13 weeks of 2024, showing a significant increase compared to the same time last year. These fatalities also contribute to the 6th and 7th traffic fatalities for the month of March on Big Island roads.
Additionally, the report mentions another traffic fatality that occurred in Hilo, where a 26-year-old male motorcyclist lost his life late Friday evening, March 29, 2024.