Troy Rasse, Car Accident, Death Obituary: Family And Friends Mourns Tragic Loss
A tragic and violent head-on collision on Daniel K. Inouye Highway has left the island community grieving after two lives were lost and four other people were injured in a crash that unfolded Friday afternoon, according to Hawaii Island Police Department.
Officials reported that the crash occurred at approximately 3:38 p.m. on May 15, 2026, when a westbound 2018 Toyota Tacoma, for reasons still under investigation, lost control while navigating a curve. Authorities believe the vehicle crossed into the opposite lane and collided head-on with an eastbound 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 that was towing a trailer carrying a mini excavator.
The impact was severe and catastrophic. A passenger in the Toyota Tacoma, 29-year-old Troy Rasse, was pronounced dead at the scene due to the extent of his injuries. Another passenger, 24-year-old Jadelyn Cariaga, also suffered fatal injuries in the collision.
Authorities said that a third passenger in the Toyota, along with the driver of the Dodge Ram, sustained serious injuries. Both were airlifted to The Queen’s Medical Center for urgent treatment. Two additional occupants — including the Toyota driver and a passenger in the Dodge — were also transported to medical facilities with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Police noted that wet road conditions at the time of the crash may have played a role in the loss of control, though the investigation is still ongoing. Officers continue to examine the scene, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions in an effort to fully understand what led to the deadly collision.
The crash has left a deep impact on the Hawaii Island community, as families and loved ones begin to process the sudden loss and injuries resulting from the incident. The severity of the wreck, involving multiple vehicles and a trailer, has also highlighted the dangers of wet-weather driving along winding highway stretches.
As investigators continue their work, authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially on curved roadways and during adverse weather conditions. More details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
For now, the community mourns the lives of Troy Rasse and Jadelyn Cariaga while holding hope for the recovery of those injured in this devastating crash.