Full Breakdown
Fatal Christmas Eve Crash in Hilo Leads to Negligent Homicide Investigation
12/26/2025, 10:46:58 PM
Incident Overview
On December 24, 2025, a tragic head-on collision on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway in Hilo resulted in the death of 74-year-old Dr. Judith Fitzgerald, an emergency room physician. The crash occurred shortly before 7:30 p.m. when a 2020 Toyota Tacoma, driven by 34-year-old Caitlin Smith of Hilo, crossed the center line and collided with Dr. Fitzgerald's 2025 Mazda convertible, which was traveling toward Kailua-Kona. Dr. Fitzgerald was pronounced dead at Hilo Benioff Medical Center at 7:59 p.m. after being found unresponsive at the scene.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the collision, Hawaii Island police initiated a negligent homicide investigation. Caitlin Smith sustained minor injuries and was treated at the same medical facility. Upon her release, she was arrested on charges of first-degree negligent homicide, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, and reckless driving. Police believe that speed, alcohol and/or drugs, and reckless driving were contributing factors to the crash. Smith remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Community Response and Impact
Dr. Fitzgerald's passing has deeply affected the local healthcare community. Dr. Kathleen Katt, Chief Medical Officer at Hilo Benioff Medical Center, expressed profound sadness over the loss, highlighting Fitzgerald's significant contributions to emergency medicine and her role in training healthcare professionals in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). Community members and colleagues have shared their grief, describing Fitzgerald as an irreplaceable friend and a dedicated physician whose impact on the region was substantial.
Official Statements
Hilo Benioff Medical Center released a statement expressing condolences to Dr. Fitzgerald's family and friends, urging the community to keep them in their thoughts and prayers. Dr. Katt remarked, “Her commitment to excellence, education, and patient care left a lasting legacy that will continue to influence our work and our mission.” The police have also requested that anyone with information about the incident contact Officer Johnathan Rapoza or Crime Stoppers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While multiple sources confirm the details of the crash and the subsequent investigation, there is a lack of information regarding the specific circumstances leading to Smith's alleged reckless driving and intoxication. Additionally, the exact cause of death for Dr. Fitzgerald remains pending the results of an autopsy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Judy Fitzgerald, who was involved in a tragic motor vehicle accident last night that was not survivable,” — Dr. Kathleen Katt, Chief Medical Officer, Hilo Benioff Medical Center
- “She was an integral part of our Emergency Department and Urgent Care teams and played a vital role in ACLS training throughout the region.” — Dr. Kathleen Katt
- “The Big Island has lost a beautiful soul,” Brashler Brown wrote.” — Dana Brashler Brown, Colleague
This incident marks the 21st traffic fatality on Hawaii Island in 2025, a decrease from 28 fatalities at the same time last year. The investigation into the crash continues as the community mourns the loss of Dr. Fitzgerald.
