HILO, Hawaii — A single-vehicle crash on Mahiai Street Sunday afternoon claimed the life of a young Hilo man, marking the first traffic fatality on Hawaii Island in 2026, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
Police said the crash occurred at approximately 2:07 p.m. on Jan. 11 along Mahiai Street near the intersection of Ahuna Road. Investigators reported that a white 2017 Jeep Renegade was traveling eastbound when the driver lost control of the vehicle for reasons that remain under investigation. The vehicle then left the roadway and crashed.
The driver, identified as 20-year-old Logan Quintal of Hilo, was the sole occupant of the Jeep. Emergency responders, including fire and medical personnel, arrived quickly at the scene and attempted life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Quintal was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead at 2:20 p.m.
Authorities stated that an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. At this stage of the investigation, police do not believe that excessive speed, alcohol, or drugs were contributing factors in the crash. Mechanical failure and roadway conditions have not been ruled out and remain part of the ongoing investigation.
The Hawaii Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing to gather evidence, including vehicle data and scene information, to better understand what led to the fatal incident. Officers are also reviewing any available witness statements from the area at the time of the crash.
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or observed the Jeep Renegade traveling along Mahiai Street shortly before the incident to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact Traffic Enforcement Unit Officer Jerome Duarte at (808) 961-2339.
This crash marks the first traffic-related death on Hawaii Island in 2026. At the same point last year, two traffic fatalities had already been reported on the island. Statewide, this incident brings renewed attention to roadway safety, following a total of seven traffic fatalities reported across Hawaii in 2025.
Officials continue to remind drivers to remain alert, obey traffic laws, and exercise caution, especially on local roads, as investigations into this tragic loss continue.
