A memorial service for Jessie Taylor, 52, who was killed last Thursday while riding his bike in North Kohala, is set for Tuesday morning, July 17, at 9 a.m. at Kona Brew Pub. Jesse worked at Kona Brew Pub, giving tours and working in the Growler Shack.
Jessie was part of a group of cyclists riding around the island, which included a support van. Last Thursday just after 1 in the afternoon, they were near Hawi on Akoni Pule Highway. The support van, which included Jessie’s wife Carol, was about 4 miles behind Jessie and was going back and forth to make sure all five riders had water and nutrition. They were alerted to the accident by a motorist coming south from Hawi. When they arrived, police were already on the scene.
Police reported that a pickup truck driven by a 16-year-old girl, with a 45-year-old female passenger, the girl’s mother, had crashed into Jessie while he was riding on the shoulder of the road, and dragged him for about 150 yards. Jessie was taken to Kona Community Hospital and not pronounced dead until 9:10 p.m., but one of the first responders said he died instantly. Witnesses say damage to the front of the truck was extensive.
The police report indicated the girl may have fallen asleep at the wheel, but are investigating further.
Friends and community members are invited to celebrate Jessie’s life Tuesday morning, 9 a.m., at Kona Brew Pub.
