Hawai‘i Island police investigating traffic incident in Volcano involving 11-year-old boy

An 11-year-old boy sustained serious injuries when he fell from the bed of a pickup truck and was run over by a food wagon being towed by the vehicle. The incident was reported at around 7:24 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 near the intersection of Maile Way and Alanui Iiwi Road in Volcano on Hawaiʻi Island.

Hawai‘i Island police say the boy was riding in the bed of the truck when he lost balance and fell. The boy sustained serious injuries and was transported to Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently transported to Kapiolani Children’s Hospital on Oʻahu for further treatment.

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating the incident and have recovered the pickup truck and the food wagon as evidence, pending further examination. The case is currently classified as a negligent injury investigation.

Police say speed and impairment are not believed to be factors in this investigation, and no arrests have been made at this time. 

Police remind motorists that riding in the bed of a pickup truck presents significant safety risks. As of June 5, 2026, Hawaiʻi state law (HRS 291-14) prohibits operators from carrying passengers under 16 years of age in the bed of a pickup truck. Police encourage all motorists to ensure passengers ride in designated seating positions and wear a seat belt whenever a vehicle is in operation.

Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has additional information to contact Sergeant Keith Nacis at 808-935-3311, or via email at keith.nacis@hawaiipolice.gov.