Lawai man sentenced to 15 years in prison for fatal 2024 crash

Keola James DeCosta of Lawai has been sentenced to the maximum 15 years in prison for a high-speed crash that killed a 69-year-old grandfather and caused serious, lifelong injuries to his adult granddaughter,  Kauaʻi Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like announced this past week.

On Jan. 19, 2024, Decosta was traveling at approximately 90 miles per hour and intoxicated when his pickup struck Joseph Fernandez’s vehicle from behind, crushing it. Fernandez of Kalāheo died immediately upon impact.

Fernandez’ 25-year-old granddaughter, who he had just picked up from her work at the Poʻipū Shopping Village, suffered long-term brain damage, broken ribs and punctured lungs.

Decosta was uninjured.

On Tuesday, DeCosta, 43, pled no contest to first degree negligent homicide, a Class B felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and first degree negligent injury, a Class C felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

At sentencing, the granddaughter who was not identified said: “On that tragic day, I endured not only the heartbreak of loss but also the physical consequences of the accident.”

She said her injuries have resulted in ongoing struggles, including severe memory loss.

“Every day, I face the reality of what I will never remember, the laughter and love that my papa would have provided,” she said.

The judge granted the state’s request to have DeCosta be sentenced to consecutive terms of imprisonment.

DeCosta’s driver’s license also was permanently revoked and he was ordered to pay restitution.

Court records showed DeCosta has been charged with a slew of traffic crimes and infractions since the year 2000. These past charges include driving without a valid license; driving without a current safety check; driving with obscured or absent license plates; driving without motor vehicle insurance; breaking the speed limit; and driving without a seatbelt.

“Our hearts go out to Mr. Fernandez’s family and to his granddaughter,” Like said. “The reckless actions of Mr. DeCosta have done irreparable harm to this family.”