Yesterday morning, two men died following a single-vehicle collision in South Kohala.

Police determined that a gray 2014 Jeep Cherokee, containing three men, was heading north on Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway when it veered off of the roadway and struck a large metal traffic light post. The vehicle then caught fire, trapping two of the men inside. The trapped men were transported to Kona Community Hospital where they were pronounced dead.  Autopsies have been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. Positive identification is pending via dental records and contacting the next of kin.

The vehicle’s other occupant, a 27-year-old Honoka‘a man, was able to escape and was transported to the North Hawaii Community Hospital for treatment. He is currently listed in stable condition.

Police believe that speed and impairment are possible factors in the crash.

The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a coroner’s inquest 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