1 dead, more than $500K damage after Hilo fire

One person was found dead Saturday after Hawaii island firefighters extinguished a Hilo house fire that caused a half-million dollars in damage.

The fire started at about 9:35 a.m. at 556 Alenaio Lane off Kinoole Street and was burning the backside of a two-story plantation-style home by the time firefighters arrived about two minutes later, Hawaii island firefighters said.

Firefighters were able to arrive quickly because a fire station is just down the road.

Twenty-three firefighters responded and contained the fire, which had spread to the front of the home and was lapping at neighboring structures. Homes next door only sustained moderate damage, firefighters said.

Because of the damage to the structure, firefighters had difficulty searching the home, which sits on elevated posts, but later confirmed one person was dead inside.

All other occupants were accounted for and were receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.

The cause was undetermined, but firefighters suspect it may have started in the garage or the back of the house.

Police said a detective was also investigating.

Firefighters estimated the fire caused $525,000 in damage.

Police closed Kinoole Street between Ponahawai and Hualalai streets for about four hours for the response by first responders.

Cody Pacheco, who was working in the area, said he saw the fire grow quickly from a tiny house fire to flames shooting out from the front windows.

Several motorists stopped along the road and ran toward the structure after someone could be heard yelling for help, Pacheco said.