“Our Hearts Are Shattered.” Family of 16-Year-Old Kalena Abelmann Speaks Out After Fatal Pali Highway Crash

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI — The family of 16-year-old Kalena Abelmann, who died in last Thursday’s tragic crash on Pali Highway, has released its first public statement, sharing the profound grief they have endured since losing their beloved daughter, sister, and friend.

As the community continues to mourn, Kalena’s loved ones say the overwhelming support they have received has helped them through one of the most difficult moments of their lives.

“Our Hearts Are Shattered”

In an emotional statement, the family described the pain of losing Kalena so suddenly.

“Our hearts are shattered by the sudden and tragic loss of Kalena.”

They also thanked the countless people who have reached out with messages of support, prayers, flowers, and donations.

The family said the compassion shown by friends, neighbors, classmates, and even strangers has provided comfort during an unimaginable time.

Remembering Kalena

While many first learned of Kalena through news of the fatal crash, those closest to her want her to be remembered for the person she was—not the tragedy that claimed her life.

“Above all, Kalena was a deeply loved daughter, sister, and friend,” the family’s statement continued.

They added that the outpouring of love from the community has been a powerful reminder of the many lives Kalena touched.

According to the family, support has poured in through a GoFundMe campaign established by her cousin, Madeline, helping ease some of the financial burdens while allowing the family to focus on grieving together.

Community Rallies Around Family

Since Kalena’s death, tributes have continued to appear across social media, with friends remembering her as someone who brought kindness, laughter, and joy wherever she went.

Many have shared stories of her adventurous spirit, creativity, and the genuine care she showed for those around her.

The family’s message acknowledged the hundreds of people who have offered encouragement during the difficult days following the crash.

Crash Remains Under Investigation

Honolulu police say Kalena was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Pali Highway Thursday morning.

Investigators previously reported that the vehicle left the roadway after the teenage driver lost control. Authorities have said speed is believed to have been a contributing factor, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Officials have not announced any additional findings as detectives continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash.

A Life That Touched Many

For Kalena’s family, the focus now is on celebrating the life she lived rather than the tragedy that ended it.

They hope she will be remembered for her compassion, her adventurous heart, and the love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

“Our hearts are shattered by the sudden and tragic loss of Kalena.”

A cherished daughter.

A beloved sister.

A treasured friend whose memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

As Hawaiʻi continues to mourn alongside the Abelmann family, many are keeping them in their thoughts and honoring the life of a young woman whose impact reached far beyond her 16 years.