TIM WRIGHT / SPECIAL TO THE STAR-ADVERTISER
A Hawaii County firefighter drenched a collapsed carport at a house Saturday on Kinoole Street in Hilo. A body was found inside during a search of the burned structure.
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HILO >> Firefighters searching the burned ruins of a home in Hilo Saturday found a body inside.
The fire at 556 Alenaio Lane off Kinoole Street was reported at 9:35 a.m. The entire back side of the two-story, plantation-style home was ablaze by the time personnel from the fire station just down the road arrived about two minutes later,
according to the Hawaii Fire Department.
The flames spread to the front of the home and were lapping at neighboring structures, which sustained moderate damage, HFD said.
Cody Pacheco, who was working in the area, said he saw the fire grow quickly from a small, isolated area to flames shooting out from the front windows of the home. Several motorists stopped along the road and ran toward the structure after someone could be heard yelling for help, he said.
Because of the damage to the residence, firefighters had difficulty searching the home but later confirmed one person was found dead inside. No name was released.
All other occupants were accounted for and were receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.
The caused of the fire was undetermined, but firefighters suspect it may have started in the garage or the back of the house, HFD said. Damage was estimated at $525,000.
Police closed Kinoole Street between Ponahawai and Hualalai streets for about four hours while investigating.