Police have identified a pedestrian who died following a Hilo traffic collision on Thursday in the area of the Waianuenue Avenue and Rainbow Drive intersection.
The victim has been identified as 69-year-old James R. Lawrence of Hilo.
Police responding to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for a separate incident around 8:23 p.m. came upon a traffic collision involving a pedestrian and a motor vehicle. Officers learned that a westbound 2015 Subaru four-door sedan driven by a 62-year-old Hilo woman on Waianuenue struck Lawrence, who was on the road and not in a marked crosswalk. Lawrence, who was conscious at the scene, was taken by ambulance to Hilo Benioff Medical Center and listed in critical condition. He succumbed injuries at 10:49 p.m.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
The driver of the Subaru wasn’t injured.
The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit is investigating the collision as a negligent homicide. At this time, police don’t think speed or alcohol/drugs were factors.
Anyone has information regarding this collision is asked to contact Officer Johnathan Rapoza at (808) 961-2339 or at Johnathan.Rapoza@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who prefer anonymity can call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
Lawrence’s death is the 12th traffic fatality of 2025 as compared to 15 at the same time last year.
