Kaua’i driver arrested following Hanamā‘ulu pedestrian fatality

The Kaua‘i Police Department is investigating a hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of a local man after he was struck on Kūhiō Highway on Friday night.

According to law enforcement, on Sept. 26 at approximately 9:15 p.m., officers responded to reports of a man lying on the side of the road after being struck by a vehicle near the 7-Eleven store at the intersection of Hanamā‘ulu and Kūhiō Highway.

The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and render aid, then fled the scene, police said.

The man was critically injured and was airlifted to Queen’s Medical Center on Oʻahu. Despite emergency treatment, he passed away from his injuries two days later, on Sept. 28.

The victim was identified as 42-year-old Alfred Lopes of Hanamā‘ulu. His death marked Kauai’s fifth traffic fatality of 2025.

Kaua’i police later identified the driver involved in the hit-and-run as 36-year-old Tiffany Jeffries, also from Hanamā‘ulu. Jeffries was operating a 2021 Chevrolet pickup truck, which exhibited damage consistent with a pedestrian collision.

She was arrested and charged with first-degree negligent injury, leaving the scene of an accident involving serious injury, and inattention to driving.

She was released pending further investigation. She was classified as an “RPI,” which means authorities need more time — beyond the 48-hour custody limit — to complete their investigation before filing formal charges.

This case remains under investigation.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact Sergeant Hanna at 808-241-1612. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at 808-246-8300.