Two die on Big Island in separate accidents

By Hugh Clark
Advertiser Big Island Bureau

HILO, Hawai'i — A Hilo driver died yesterday morning after crashing his car into a palm tree on Banyan Drive, and a Kona motorcycle rider hurt in a March 30 crash died Saturday at Queen's Medical Center.

Police said Mark K. Makuakane, 30, who lived in the Wainaku neighborhood, died at Hilo Medical Center following the 3:05 a.m. crash. He drove his 1988 Toyota sedan into a palm tree in a median. He was driving south toward Kamehameha Avenue when he lost control of his car.

Makuakane, who was not wearing a seat belt, suffered head injuries, Sgt. Samuel Jelsma of the Traffic Enforcement Unit said. He said police were investigating to determine if speed or alcohol were factors in the crash, which took place in a 25 mph zone.

The motorcycle operator who died as the result of a crash on Henry Street in Kailua-Kona, was identified as Claysen H. Kainoa, 22, of Captain Cook in South Kona.

Investigators said Kainoa, who was not wearing a helmet, struck his head on a retaining wall when he ran off the roadway while trying to pass another vehicle.

He was treated at Kona Community Hospital and later taken by air ambulance to Queen's.