MEDIA RELEASE

After conferring with Prosecutors, Police traffic investigators have released the driver of the Nissan truck, identified as Alfred Berdon III, pending investigation for 2 counts of negligent homicide, 4 counts of negligent injury, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, driving while license suspended/revoked and no no fault insurance, stemming from a two-vehicle crash on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19), .2 miles east of the 39-mile-marker in the Hamakua District on September 10, 2012.

Berdon was operating a 1993 Nissan pick-up truck and traveling east on Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19) when he overtook a 2005 Ford van being operated by a 45-year-old Keaʻau man with 8-passengers.

A 61-year-old woman and a 54-year-old woman both from Keaʻau died Monday (September 10) from injuries they received in the two- vehicle crash.

The victims were identified as Josefina B. Visaya, 61, and Patrocinia R. Cadang, 54.

Alfred Berdon III, remains in custody on a no bail warrant.

Berdon is being held without bail at the East Hawaiʻi Detention Center until his court appearance on September 13th (Thursday) in Hilo.

Police traffic investigators are also asking for any witnesses and people assisting at the scene to call Officer Paul Kim at 333-9708.