Beloved ER Doctor Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Christmas Eve

A Christmas Eve crash on Hawai‘i Island has claimed the life of a beloved longtime emergency room physician, authorities said.

Police confirmed that Dr. Judith “Judy” Fitzgerald, 74, was killed Wednesday night after her car was struck head-on along Daniel K. Inouye Highway. Investigators said Fitzgerald was driving west in a Mazda convertible around 7:30 p.m. when a Toyota Tacoma pickup traveling in the opposite direction crossed the center line and slammed into her vehicle.

Fitzgerald was found unresponsive at the scene and rushed to Hilo Benioff Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead at 7:59 p.m., according to police.

The hospital later confirmed on social media that Fitzgerald had served for years as an emergency room doctor, calling her death a devastating loss for the medical community.

“Throughout her career, Dr. Fitzgerald generously volunteered for numerous leadership roles and was a steadfast advocate for the remarkable progress and growth our healthcare community has achieved,” the hospital said in a statement. “Her commitment to excellence, education, and patient care left a lasting legacy.”

The other driver, identified by police as 34-year-old Caitlin Smith of Hilo, suffered minor injuries. Authorities said Smith was initially arrested on suspicion of first-degree negligent homicide, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, and reckless driving.

After conferring with the prosecutor’s office, police released Smith on Thursday, Dec. 25, pending further investigation. Officials emphasized that Smith is not accused of any wrongdoing at this time.

Investigators said the crash remains under investigation and that speed, alcohol or drugs, and reckless driving are believed to have been primary factors.

Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda mourned Fitzgerald’s death, calling her a cornerstone of the local healthcare system.

“She was a pillar in our community in the health field,” Alameda said, according to Hawaii News Now. “To lose somebody like this so tragically is very sad for all of us.”