Texas Man Joseph Donaldson Identified as Victim in Fatal Maui Car Crash
MAKENA, MAUI — The Maui Police Department has confirmed that the victim of Thursday’s fatal single-vehicle accident on Makena Road has been identified as 47-year-old Joseph Donaldson of League City, Texas. The tragic crash occurred during the early morning hours, leaving the quiet coastal area of Makena in shock as investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.
According to the Maui Police Department’s Traffic Division, officers responded to a call shortly after 6:40 a.m. on Thursday following reports of a vehicle that had veered off the roadway. Upon arrival, first responders found a heavily damaged vehicle along the shoulder of Makena Road near Maluaka Beach, a scenic stretch often traveled by locals and tourists alike.
Police reported that the vehicle, a 2021 Jeep Wrangler, appeared to have lost control on a curve, crossing the center line before colliding with a rock embankment and overturning. When emergency personnel arrived, Joseph Donaldson, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was found unresponsive inside. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts by paramedics at the scene, he was pronounced deceased shortly afterward.
Investigators believe that speed and possibly familiarity with the road conditions may have been contributing factors. The area where the accident occurred is known for its sharp turns and narrow lanes, particularly challenging for drivers unfamiliar with the terrain. Officials stated that no other vehicles were involved in the crash, and there was no indication of foul play.
The Maui Fire Department assisted in recovering the vehicle, which had sustained significant damage to the front and driver’s side. Traffic was temporarily halted in both directions as authorities worked to clear debris and conduct an on-site investigation. The road was reopened to motorists later that afternoon after safety crews confirmed it was clear.
Joseph Donaldson, a resident of League City, Texas, was visiting Maui on vacation. Friends and family described him as a kind, adventurous, and family-oriented man who loved to travel and explore new places. His trip to Hawaii was meant to be a time of rest and enjoyment, making the sudden loss all the more devastating for those who knew him.
Donaldson worked as a mechanical engineer and was well respected among his colleagues for his dedication and leadership. Outside of work, he was known for his love of outdoor activities, especially hiking and photography. Friends said he often shared photos of sunsets and scenic drives, a reflection of his appreciation for nature and life’s simple beauty.
In a statement, Maui police expressed their condolences to the family and urged both residents and visitors to exercise caution while driving, especially on roads like Makena, where visibility and road conditions can change quickly. They reminded motorists to obey posted speed limits and remain alert at all times.
This tragedy marks Maui County’s 18th traffic fatality of 2025, underscoring ongoing concerns about roadway safety on the island. Local officials continue to emphasize the importance of defensive driving and awareness, particularly for visitors who may not be familiar with Maui’s winding and narrow roadways.
Donaldson’s family, currently working with local authorities and the U.S. consulate, are making arrangements to bring him home to Texas. Loved ones back in League City have already begun sharing tributes online, recalling his humor, generosity, and devotion to his family. “He was the kind of person who made life brighter for everyone around him,” one friend wrote. “He had a gentle heart, an adventurous soul, and a smile that could light up any room.”
As the Maui community reflects on yet another tragic accident, police continue their investigation to confirm the exact cause of the crash. A final report from the Traffic Division is expected in the coming weeks.
For now, both locals and visitors pause to remember Joseph Donaldson — a traveler whose life, filled with curiosity and kindness, ended far too soon on a road he had only just begun to explore. His passing serves as a solemn reminder of the need for care, attention, and respect for the island’s beautiful but often unpredictable roads.