Hawai’i Island police launched a negligent homicide investigation following a fatal traffic collision involving  21-year-old Maxwell Robertson Sherwood of Kea‘aua.

Friday evening, responding HPD officers determined that a 2010 Jeep Wrangler multi-purpose vehicle operated by  30-year-old Dallas Brooks, was traveling east on Orchidland Drive when it struck Sherwood who was on the roadway, but not in a marked crosswalk.

Sherwood was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center via ambulance where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

Brooks, who was not injured as a result of the collision, was arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant and first-degree negligent homicide.

The East Hawai‘i Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing its investigation into the incident. At this time, police believe alcohol is a factor in the crash.

Anyone with information regarding this collision is encouraged to contact Officer Joshua Rodby-Tomas at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Joshua.Rodby-Tomas@hawaiicounty.gov.