PHOTOS: A structure fire early Sunday morning destroyed four buildings in downtown Hilo, displacing seven residents and prompting the evacuation of dozens more from nearby buildings. According to the County of Hawaii, no fatalities or injuries were reported.
The fire occurred around 1 a.m. on Kino’ole and Haili streets. County agencies collaborated with nonprofits including the Red Cross, Hope Services, Salvation Army, and Vibrant Hawaii to offer shelter and meals to those displaced or unable to return home immediately.
A shelter was initially set up at the Clem Akina Park and was later moved to the Ho’olulu Complex. The shelter provided meals, showers, and transportation by the County’s Mass Transit Agency. Mayor Kimo Alameda expressed gratitude for the efforts of first responders and nonprofit partners, emphasizing the community’s resilience and compassion during challenging times.
“Our community faced multiple traffic events this weekend, including the loss of two lives during a structure fire in Hilo on Saturday. On behalf of the County of Hawaii, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those we lost,” said Mayor Alameda.
