By Baron Sekiya, Hawaii 24/7

Vehicle crashes caused the temporary closure of a two of Big Island roadways Wednesday (Nov 18).

A fatal morning crash occurred 300 feet west the 52 mile marker near the Waimea Country Club. A 22 year-old woman identified as Keshia A. Fernandez, of a Honokaa address, was involved in a two car crash.

Police reported that Fernandez was operating a 1998 Honda four-door sedan travelling west on Highway 19 when she lost control, crossed the centerline and collided with a 2002 Ford multi-purpose vehicle traveling east.

Fernandez was taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 8:22 a.m. Fernandez was wearing a seat belt.

The driver of the Ford, a 34-year-old woman from Kamuela, three boys ages 14, 4 and 2, and a 13-year-old girl were also taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital with minor injuries.

Traffic Enforcement Unit officers have initiated a negligent homicide investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Traffic was re-routed through Ahualoa with police re-opening the roadway at 11:05 a.m.

This is the 21st ttraffic fatality on Big Island this year compared with 24 at this time last year.

One of the vehicles involved in a multiple vehicle crash fronting Hilo High School.

In Hilo about 1:45 pm. a multiple vehicle crash occurred fronting Hilo High School on Waianuenue Avenue. The makai bound lane was closed to vehicle traffic for about 20 minutes as fire/rescue crews, police and tow trucks cleared the area.

The makai bound lane of Waianuenue Avenue is closed as emergency vehicle tend to a multiple vehicle crash fronting Hilo High School.