An occupant Friday morning escaped a fire that heavily damaged a Hilo house that may have started in a dryer.

Hawaii Fire Department officials said fire units responded to a structure fire at 475 W. Kawailani St. at 6:12 a.m. and found the house one-third involved in fire. The fire was reported under control at 6:30 a.m.

The fire started in the garage and extended to the living area above the garage and into the main living area.  

Property loss is estimated at $80,000, but two vehicles were also damaged, adding $20,000 in damages, fire officials said.

Investigators are concentrating on an electrical malfunction in a dryer.

No injuries were reported, and the American Red Cross was assisting the occupant.