Full Breakdown
Tragic Christmas Eve Collision Claims Life of Hilo Emergency Physician
12/27/2025, 12:31:59 AM
Fatal Incident on Daniel K. Inouye Highway
On December 24, 2025, Dr. Judith "Judy" Fitzgerald, a 74-year-old emergency room physician at Hilo Benioff Medical Center, was killed in a traffic collision on Daniel K. Inouye Highway. The accident occurred around 7:30 p.m. when a 2020 Toyota Tacoma, driven by 34-year-old Caitlin Smith of Hilo, crossed the center line and collided head-on with Fitzgerald's 2025 Mazda convertible. Fitzgerald was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, while Smith sustained minor injuries and was treated before being arrested on charges of first-degree negligent homicide, driving under the influence of an intoxicant, and reckless driving. She was released on December 25 pending further investigation.
Background and Context
Dr. Fitzgerald was a respected figure in the Hawaii medical community, known for her long-standing service and leadership at Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kathleen Katt described her as an "integral part" of the Emergency Department and Urgent Care teams, emphasizing her contributions to Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training throughout the region. Fitzgerald's death marks a significant loss for both her colleagues and the community, as she was regarded as a "pillar in our community in the health field," according to Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Dr. Katt expressed profound sadness over Fitzgerald's passing, highlighting her impact on the healthcare community. "Her commitment to excellence, education, and patient care left a lasting legacy that will continue to influence our work and our mission," Katt stated. Mayor Alameda echoed these sentiments, urging the community to reflect on the tragic nature of the incident and the need for safer driving practices.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has sparked discussions about road safety, particularly on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, which has seen numerous accidents. Christopher Gali, a retired Hawaii Police traffic enforcement sergeant, noted the irony of Fitzgerald's role in pronouncing victims deceased, emphasizing the need for improved driving behavior. Theresa Paulette from the Hawaii chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving lamented the loss of a life dedicated to saving others, attributing the tragedy to impaired driving.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While police have indicated that speed, alcohol, and/or drugs were primary factors in the crash, specific details regarding the investigation remain unclear. Smith has not been formally charged with any wrongdoing at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the collision to come forward. The incident has also reignited calls for increased traffic safety measures on the highway, with community leaders advocating for better enforcement and public awareness campaigns to prevent future tragedies.
Verbatim Quotes
“Dr. Fitzgerald was a long-time emergency physician and physician leader whose impact on our organization and our region cannot be overstated. From Kea‘au to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, this loss is deeply felt. 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, Chief Medical Officer, Hilo Benioff Medical Center
“She was a pillar in our community in the health field,” — Kimo Alameda, Hawaii County Mayor
“Whenever we had a traffic fatality, of course the victims would be transported to the hospital and most of the times we made contact with Dr. Fitzgerald because she pronounces the victim deceased,” — Christopher Gali, Retired Hawaii Police Traffic Enforcement Sergeant
“I encourage the viewers to hear this message, to share it with their loved ones, their families, their nieces, nephews, uncles, aunties, (and) get the word out. Let’s not let these 21 victims in this past year, life go in vain. We need to stop this craziness and drive better,” — Kimo Alameda, Hawaii County Mayor
