A tragic two-vehicle collision on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway resulted in the deaths of a Waimea couple on the morning of February 18, 2025. The incident has left the community in mourning and is under investigation by Big Island police.
According to police reports, the collision occurred when a silver sedan, driven by 51-year-old Reginald Kaleilehua Tolentino Jr., attempted to overtake several vehicles, including a tractor-trailer hauling a full tank of fuel. As the sedan moved southbound, it collided head-on with a northbound pickup truck. Both Reginald and his wife, 55-year-old Colette Marie Kaleialoha Tolentino, were transported to Kona Community Hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck, a 55-year-old male, suffered life-threatening injuries and was initially taken to North Hawai‘i Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Queen’s Medical Center in Oʻahu for more extensive treatment.
This devastating crash marks the sixth and seventh traffic fatalities on the Big Island this year, a stark increase compared to four fatalities at the same time last year.
The Dangers of Reckless Driving
Collisions like the one involving the Tolentinos serve as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving, particularly when drivers attempt risky maneuvers such as overtaking multiple vehicles. These types of accidents often occur in high-traffic areas where larger vehicles, like trucks, are present and can create additional hazards for smaller vehicles.
“Car accidents resulting from excessive speeding or reckless driving are not just preventable, they often constitute negligence under the law and can have severe legal consequences,” said Brett Schreiber, partner at Singleton Schreiber. “This tragedy underscores the critical need for responsible driving, especially on highways, where high-speed collisions frequently result in catastrophic injuries and significant liability for at-fault parties.”
Legal Options for Victims and Families
For those affected by such incidents, legal recourse may be available to help ease the burden of medical bills, funeral costs, and other expenses. Families who lose loved ones in fatal accidents due to another driver’s negligence may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
“A wrongful death claim can help bring a sense of justice for families while ensuring they are financially supported during a difficult time,” Schreiber added.
This tragic event also serves as a call to action for drivers to be more cautious and respectful on the road, particularly when navigating busy highways.
For those seeking more information or assistance in pursuing a wrongful death claim, Singleton Schreiber offers free consultations. Contact us at (808) 582-8062 or email info@singletonschreiber.com.
