KAILUA-KONA — Mamalahoa Highway is closed between Waikoloa and Kailua-Kona following a fatal crash this morning near the highway’s intersection with Daniel K. Inouye Highway.
One person is confirmed to have died in the crash that occurred shortly after 7 a.m. today. No additional information was immediately available about vehicles involved or other injuries.
The Hawaii Police Department said shortly after 9 a.m. that the closure of the highway, also known as Highway 190, between Waikoloa Road in South Kohala and Makalei Fire Station in North Kona was expected to remain in effect for six to seven hours while police investigate the incident.
The closure is sure to cause traffic delays as it leaves open just Queen Kaahumanu Highway between the two areas. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to use alternate routes if possible.
An alternative route for Kona-bound traffic is to use Waikoloa Road and Queen Kaahumanu Highway to reach Kailua-Kona. Those headed toward Waimea should head down Kaiminani Drive to head north on Queen Kaahumanu Highway to Waikoloa Road, which can be used to reach Mamalahoa Highway to Waimea.