Hawai‘i Island police arrested 63-year-old Ronald Smith Fitzwater of Captain Cook for negligent homicide and failure to render aid after 88-year-old Theodor Lai, Sr. of Hōnaunau died following a single-vehicle collision in Captain Cook.
On Sunday, August 6, HPD determined that Lai was involved in a verbal argument with Fitzwater, who was driving a pick up truck. As the truck was driving away, Lai continued to yell at the Fitzwater while possibly holding on to the vehicle. At some point, Lai was possibly run over by the pickup truck which left the parking lot in an unknown direction.
Lai was transported to Kona Community Hospital for initial treatment and later pronounced dead. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Yesterday, Fitzwater turned himself in at the Kealakehe Police Station where he was subsequently arrested. Investigators also located a white 2004 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck that is possibly involved in the collision. Fitzwater remains in custody while the investigation is continuing.
Police are asking for the public to check their video surveillance near Kealakekua Ranch Center. between 12:25 p.m. and 12:35 p.m on Sunday, August 6. for any vehicles matching the description mentioned above.
The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing their negligent homicide investigation and ask for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Dayson Taniguchi at (808) 326-4646, ext. 229, or via email at dayson.taniguchi@hawaiicounty.gov.
HPD Photo