A motorcycle crash Saturday in the area of Kanoelehua Avenue and East Kawailani Street in Hilo has resulted in the death of the rider.
The victim, identified as 40-year-old Eric Fontes of Hilo, was found unresponsive at the scene and transported in critical condition to Hilo Medical Center and later to The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu.
Police were notified that Fontes died at Queen’s on Wednesday, May 25, at 3:56 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine that exact cause of death.
Fontes’ motorcycle was the only vehicle involved in the crash. Police say the roadway was dry and Fontes wasn’t wearing a helmet.
Potential witnesses are asked to contact Officer Clifford Antonio at (808) 961-2339 or Clifford.Antonio@HawaiiCounty.gov. Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
Fontes’ death is the 17th official traffic fatality this year compared to 11 at this time last year. There was also a vehicle-related death within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but it isn’t counted toward the official tally because it occurred outside the jurisdiction of the Hawaii Police Department.