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Driver who hit, killed
pedestrian changes plea

By Debra Barayuga
Star-Bulletin

A man facing trial for hitting and killing a 10-year-old boy who was crossing Farrington Highway in Waianae changed his plea today.

Victor Valoroso pleaded no contest to second-degree negligent homicide in the death of Jerry Kekahuna, who was struck while crossing the highway with his brothers in December, 1998.

Valoroso faces possible probation, with one year in prison as a condition, when sentenced June 20 before Circuit Judge Michael Town, said deputy prosecutor Julian White. If the court finds probation inappropriate, he could face up to five years in prison.

Valoroso is remorseful and has never denied responsibility, said his attorney, Myles Breiner.

Prosecutors say Valoroso was driving 57 mph in a 20-mph zone.

But what's at issue is that the state has refused to protect people on the Waianae Coast, Breiner said.

Valoroso's brother was killed on the same stretch of highway four years ago.

Although lanes have been widened in both directions, Breiner said the state has failed to install safety barriers between opposing lanes of traffic, pedestrian crossovers, and curbs between the road and sidewalk.

Transportation officials and area lawmakers could not be reached immediately for comment.