Fatal Two-Car Crash on Maluhia Road Kills One, Injures One
Brandon Nakaahiki, 35, died after his Honda crossed the center line on Maluhia Road at 4:10 a.m. Friday, marking Kauai's second traffic fatality of 2026.
A northbound 2008 Honda sedan crossed the center line while navigating a curve on Maluhia Road in Kōloa shortly after 4 a.m. Friday, striking a southbound 2022 Toyota SUV and killing the Honda's driver, marking the second traffic fatality on Kauai this year.
The driver of the Honda, Brandon Nakaahiki, 35, a Kauai resident, sustained fatal injuries in the crash, which occurred at approximately 4:10 a.m. on March 20. His front-seat passenger, a 33-year-old woman from Kōloa, suffered serious injuries. Medics transported her to Wilcox Medical Center in Līhu'e before she was transferred to The Queen's Medical Center on O'ahu for further treatment. The driver of the Toyota, a 70-year-old woman from Kapa'a, was not harmed.
The Kaua'i Police Department's Traffic Safety Section conducted an on-scene investigation that closed Maluhia Road in both directions for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Based on a preliminary investigation, police said speed and weather conditions may have been contributing factors. Toxicology results are pending to determine whether impairment also played a role.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Officer Henshaw at 808-241-1616. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers Kauai by phone at 808-246-8300, online at crimestopperskauai.org, or through the Crime Stoppers Kauai P3 Tips Mobile App.
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