Hawai‘i Island police launched a negligent homicide investigation following a fatal Christmas eve motor vehicle collision on Daniel K. Inouye Highway in Hilo.

Responding officers determined that a 2020 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was traveling Hilo bound when it crossed the center line and struck a 2025 Mazda two-door convertible head-on as it was traveling in Kona bound.  74-year-old Judith Fitzgerald of Kailua-Kona. was located unresponsive at the scene and transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center where she was pronounced dead.

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

The operator of the Toyota, 34-year-old Caitlin Smith of Hilo, sustained minor injuries and was transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment. Upon release, Smith was arrested for first-degree negligent homicide, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant and reckless driving. After conferring with the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, police released Smith pending further investigation.

The Area I Traffic Enforcement Unit responded to the scene and is continuing the investigation. At this time, police believe speed, alcohol and/or drugs, and reckless driving were the primary factors in the crash.