Posted on: Monday, December 24, 2001

Traffic death near airport prompts police caution

By Walter Wright
Advertiser Staff Writer

Honolulu Police Sgt. John Agno said yesterday he doesn't want to see you this Christmas — or any other time.

Agno, an investigator with the HPD vehicular homicide section, yesterday reported the 75th traffic fatality of 2001, compared with 64 by Christmas Eve last year.

"Today, two days before Christmas, we have to report a fatality that occurred about 11 a.m.," Agno said.

A 30-year-old man driving a 1993 Toyota 4Runner on Kamehameha Highway just west of Puuloa Road slammed into a support column for the H-1 Freeway viaduct, Agno said.

The car was traveling west in the right-turn lane, did not turn and instead went straight, climbed the curb and struck the column, Agno said.

"Witnesses said (the car) drove directly into the column without braking or slowing down," the investigator said.

The driver, who was not wearing a seat belt, suffered massive head and chest injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

It was not known whether speed or alcohol played a role in the crash, Agno said.

"I hope you all have a Merry Christmas," he said. "I hope not to see you all."