A 1-year-old Kailua-Kona boy died after being hit by a car Saturday evening in the parking lot of Kahaluu Housing in Kailua-Kona.
A 1-year-old Kailua-Kona boy died after being hit by a car Saturday evening in the parking lot of Kahaluu Housing in Kailua-Kona.
He was identified as Benwa Benjimon.
Officers responding to a 7:54 p.m. call, police determined that a white 1996 Chevrolet Suburban was attempting to reverse into a parking stall. The toddler was standing in front of the Suburban as it pulled forward, causing critical injuries.
The boy was taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:37 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered.
The Suburban’s driver, 38-year-old Benjimon Gideon of Kailua-Kona, was arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide and later released pending further investigation.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Officer Justin Hooser at 326-4646, ext. 229. Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.
Because this crash occurred on private property, the death does not count toward the official traffic fatality count.