A Campbell High School student, 14, died this morning after the dirt bike he was riding was struck by a vehicle in Ewa Beach, authorities said.
Police said at about 7:42 a.m., a vehicle driven by a 75-year-old man collided with the teen on the dirt bike, who was traveling in a marked crosswalk against a red palm signal on Kolowaka Drive near Fort Weaver Road.
The driver and his juvenile passenger remained at the scene and were not injured.
The teen on the dirt bike was ejected onto the roadway and critically injured. Police said he was not wearing a helmet.
Honolulu Emergency Medical Services administered advanced life support on the boy and took him to the hospital in critical condition.
The Honolulu Police Department said the teen later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
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Campbell High School Principal Jon Henry Lee sent a letter to the school community, sharing that one of its students passed away this morning following an accident near the Fort Weaver Road and Kolowaka Drive intersection.
“On behalf of the entire Campbell High ohana, we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends, classmates and teachers,” said Lee in the letter. “Out of respect for the family, we will not be releasing further details at this time. The Honolulu Police Department is investigating, and we are cooperating fully.”
Principal Lee said the school’s crisis intervention team of trained professionals is available to support those experiencing grief and sadness, and that parents are strongly encouraged to use these resources.
HPD Interim Chief Rade Vanic expressed his condolences to the family and community, and urged drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and all road users to take extra precautions.
“Every life lost on our roads is one too many,” said Vanic in a news release. “Traffic safety is not just the responsibility of law enforcement — it is a shared kuleana. Whether you are behind the wheel, walking, or riding, each of us plays a role in making sure everyone gets home safely.”
Police shut down Kolowaka Drive in both directions near Fort Weaver while they investigated the crash, issuing a traffic advisory at about 8:11 a.m.
At this time, police said speed, drugs, and alcohol do not appear to be contributing factors. An investigation is ongoing.
Police said this is the 54th traffic fatality for Oahu this year, compared to 26 at the same time last year.
HPD issued the following safety reminders for all road users:
>> Drivers: Slow down, avoid distractions and never drive under the influence. Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists.
>> Pedestrians: Use crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers and stay alert when crossing streets.
>> Bicyclists: Wear visible clothing, follow traffic laws and use designated bike lanes whenever possible.
>> Everyone: Practice patience, share the road respectfully and look out for one another.