Police Identify Woman Killed in Kea‘au Traffic Collision
Hawai‘i Island police have confirmed the identity of the woman who tragically lost her life in a single-vehicle traffic collision in Kea‘au on the evening of Monday, March 31, 2025. The victim has been identified as 45-year-old Renoo Gilbert, a resident of Kea‘au. Her death marks the ninth traffic fatality on the island this year, significantly higher compared to the five fatalities recorded at the same time last year.
The Incident
At approximately 9:34 p.m. on March 31, 2025, the Hawai‘i Police Department responded to reports of a traffic accident on Maku‘u Drive in the Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision of Kea‘au. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a 2018 Nissan Sentra, driven by Gilbert, had been traveling east on Maku‘u Drive. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle failed to stop at the posted stop sign at the intersection of Maku‘u Drive and Ala Heiau Road.
The Nissan Sentra continued traveling east and ultimately struck a rock wall along the side of the road. Gilbert, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was found unresponsive at the scene. Emergency responders quickly transported her to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for treatment, but tragically, she was pronounced deceased at 11:34 p.m. that same night.
Preliminary Investigation Findings
The East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash. While the investigation is ongoing, police have indicated that initial findings suggest several factors that may have contributed to the collision.
Authorities believe that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, and inattention and failure to wear a seatbelt are also suspected to have played a role. These contributing factors have raised serious concerns about road safety and the importance of adhering to traffic laws, including stopping at intersections and wearing seatbelts.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death, but preliminary indications suggest that these factors were likely involved in the tragic incident. The police continue to piece together the details of what led to the crash.
A Community Impacted
The tragic death of Renoo Gilbert has sent shockwaves through the Kea‘au community, where she was a resident. Neighbors and friends have expressed their sorrow over the loss of Gilbert, a woman who was known to many. This incident has also heightened concerns regarding traffic safety in the area, particularly around stop signs and high-traffic intersections.
The Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision, a peaceful area of East Hawai‘i, is now grappling with the impact of this tragic event, and local residents are being urged to be more vigilant while driving, especially when approaching intersections and other potentially hazardous areas.
A Growing Concern: Traffic Fatalities on Hawai‘i Island
Renoo Gilbert’s death marks the ninth traffic fatality on Hawai‘i Island this year, a concerning rise in fatalities when compared to the same time period in 2024, which recorded only five traffic-related deaths. The increase in fatalities has prompted local authorities to take a closer look at traffic safety, and they have committed to ramping up efforts to prevent further accidents.
Hawai‘i Island’s traffic enforcement teams continue to remind residents and visitors to be mindful of their driving habits, follow all posted traffic signs, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. These measures, they stress, can make a significant difference in reducing the number of accidents and fatalities.
The Call for Public Assistance
As part of the ongoing investigation, Hawai‘i Island police are asking anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward. Officer Jerome Duarte, the lead investigator on the case, is urging individuals who may have witnessed the collision or have additional information to contact him directly at (808) 961-2339 or via email at Jerome.Duarte@hawaiicounty.gov.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, the public is encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300. Tipsters can provide valuable information that may help authorities piece together the final details of this tragic incident.
A Final Thought
Renoo Gilbert’s death has left a hole in the lives of those who knew her. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and responsible on the roads. The loss of a single life is one too many, and the ripple effects of such a tragedy are far-reaching, affecting families, friends, and entire communities.
As police continue their investigation, the Hawai‘i Island community remains in mourning, and thoughts are with Renoo Gilbert’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. The rise in traffic fatalities on the island is a somber reminder that every driver’s actions have consequences and that safety on the roads must always be a priority.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Renoo Gilbert and hope that the investigation brings closure to those affected by this heartbreaking loss.