Skateboard rider dies in Kona traffic

By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer

A 15-year-old boy on a skateboard was fatally struck by a sport utility vehicle last night in Kona on the Big Island.

Police have identified the victim as Erik W. Hamar, of a Kailua address in Kona.

The driver of the Ford Bronco, identified as a 34-year-old Waikoloa resident, was arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide, driving under the influence of alcohol and driving without insurance. Charges were pending last night.

Police said the boy was crossing Kuakini Highway at the Nani-Kailua Drive intersection when he was struck at about 6:20 p.m.

Witnesses said Hamar was in a crosswalk, but was crossing on a skateboard against the light while his friends waited for the light to change.

Fire rescue and ambulance crews attempted to revive Hamar, but he was pronounced dead on arrival at Kona Community Hospital at 6:55 p.m.

An investigation was under way, but police said alcohol and the actions of the pedestrian likely were contributing factors. Police said an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Neither the driver of the Bronco nor his 28-year-old female passenger was injured, police said.