Hawai’i Island police released the operator of the vehicle that struck a male pedestrian who recently died following a Kurtistown traffic collision.

Responding officers determined that a 2010 Jeep Wrangler driven by Dallas Brooks, was traveling east on Orchidland Drive when it struck Robertson Sherwood.

Sherwood was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center where he 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. At this time, police believe alcohol is a factor in the crash.

After conferring with the Hawaiʻi County Prosecutors Office, the East Hawaiʻi Traffic Enforcement Unit released Brooks pending further investigation. A negligent homicide investigation has been initiated

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