A 36-year-old Big Island woman died Sunday from injuries she suffered in a single-vehicle crash at the intersection of Hawaii Belt Road (Route 11) and Route 180 in Honalo, South Kona.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as Dana M. Leoneza.
It happened just before 2:30 a.m.
Police say Leoneza struck a utility pole.
Leoneza and her 25-year-old passenger were taken to the Kona Community Hospital.
Leoneza was pronounced dead at 8:19 p.m.
The passenger was listed in serious condition and confined to the hospital.
Prior to the crash, police say Leoneza was arrested at the hospital for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, negligent injury and promoting a dangerous drug. She was released pending further investigation.
Speed and alcohol appear to be factors in this crash.
Traffic Enforcement Unit officers have initiated a coroner’s inquest case and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
This is the second traffic fatality on the Big Island this year compared with five at this time last year.
See the original article at: KHON2 Developing Stories
