Collision Kills Woman, Injures Two on Hwy 11 in Ocean View, HI
August 2, 2026
Ocean View, HI (August 2, 2026) – A two-vehicle crash on Highway 11 in Ocean View left a woman dead and two drivers injured on Saturday, August 1. The wreck occurred at approximately 12:50 a.m. near the 76-mile marker and Kohala Boulevard.
Investigators said a Toyota Highlander was turning from Kohala Boulevard into the eastbound lane of Highway 11. An eastbound Toyota Tacoma reportedly approached at a high rate of speed.
The Tacoma appeared to swerve into the westbound lane to avoid the Highlander, but collided with it. Both vehicles then struck a guardrail, causing the Tacoma to overturn several times.
A passenger in the Tacoma, identified as 51-year-old Stephanie Ann Mello of Ocean View, was ejected from the vehicle. Emergency units transported her to Kona Community Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Crews also transported the Tacoma’s 52-year-old male driver and the Highlander’s 60-year-old female driver to a hospital. Both drivers were listed in stable condition with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Investigators believe speed and alcohol contributed to the collision. The Hawaiʻi Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the wreck.
Our deepest sympathies go out to Stephanie Ann Mello’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
How Long Do Families Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Ocean View, HI?
In Ocean View and throughout Hawaii, families generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. Missing the deadline may prevent recovery through the courts. Certain circumstances can affect how the filing period applies.
In the months that follow, families may need time to address insurance, estate, and financial matters. Investigations may also take time to complete. Starting early helps preserve evidence and prevent unnecessary delays.
Throughout Hawaiʻi Island, Highway 11 connects Ocean View with Kaʻū, South Kona, and nearby communities. Drivers travel through rural stretches, curves, and intersections. Evidence from these roads may help show how a fatal collision occurred.
As records become available, families should preserve medical bills, funeral invoices, tax documents, and insurance correspondence. Photographs, witness information, and vehicle records may also support the claim. Organized evidence can help establish financial and personal losses.
Beyond immediate expenses, a wrongful death claim may include lost income, household services, and loss of companionship. Available damages depend on the family’s relationship with the deceased. Each claim requires a careful review of the facts.
When legal questions arise, a personal injury lawyer can identify the filing deadline and eligible parties. An attorney can also collect records and communicate with insurers. Early guidance may help families avoid missed deadlines and preventable disputes.
At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we help families in Ocean View and throughout Hawaii after fatal roadway crashes. Our team provides compassionate legal guidance and helps families understand the steps they can take following the sudden loss of a loved one.
If your family lost a loved one in an Ocean View crash, contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner at (808) 537-2525. We can explain the filing deadline and the legal options available to your family.
Notes: Our team of writers uses secondary sources, including news coverage and local and state law enforcement releases, to prepare these posts. We have not independently verified every fact surrounding this crash, so please contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner if any information is incorrect so we can update the post to reflect the most accurate details available.
Disclaimer: This post is not a solicitation for business. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. Nothing in this post is intended as legal or medical advice. Anyone injured in an accident should seek medical assistance immediately.