Name of moped rider killed in Oahu’s 23rd traffic fatality of the year released

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A moped rider killed in a crash on Kapiolani Boulevard Monday morning has been identified.

On Tuesday, the Medical Examiner identified the victim as 49-year-old Jaymie Arakaki, of Honolulu.

Arakaki was killed when the driver of a commercial vehicle tried to turn left into a driveway on Kapiolani Boulevard, striking Arakaki’s moped.

It was the 23rd fatality on Oahu roadways so far this year, compared to 19 at the same time in 2018.

The crash happened about 7 a.m. near the intersection of Ward Avenue, and forced police to close several lanes of Kapiolani Boulevard for hours.

Lt. James Slayter, of the police Traffic Division, said the left turn by the commercial van was an illegal turn from the second westbound lane on the boulevard.

Arakaki was in the blind spot of the van.

Police added that Arakaki was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and hit his head on the roadway. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition, and later died.

The commercial van belongs to Kamaaina Termite and Pest Control.

After the crash, Kamaaina Termite issued this statement: “Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with all involved. Kamaaina Termite and Pest Control will cooperate with authorities.”

Police said alcohol, drugs and speed do not appear to factors in the crash.

But after the incident, Slayter called the spate of fatalities on Oahu roadways “senseless.”

“If everybody would just take the their time and be a responsible driver, things like this would easily be avoided,” he said.

HPD’s safety message to drivers comes as police struggle to address an increase in traffic fatalities.

Last year, 117 people died on roadways statewide ― the highest total since 2007.

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