Arson Investigation into Pukalani Community Center Fire

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A fire late last night at the Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community center in Pukalani is being investigated as arson.

Officials say the fire appeared to have started at around 11:40 p.m. on Sunday, January 13, 2013, on the outside of the building near two portable toilets.

Fire officials say damages were estimated at $39,000–including $31,000 in damage to the restroom, and $8,000 in damage to the portables.

Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said the 600-square foot restroom located below the swimming pool sustained heavy roof damage with approximately 80% of the structure involved.  He said both portable toilets were completely destroyed.

The fire was brought under control at 11:57 p.m., and extinguished at 12:23 a.m. on Monday morning, January 14, 2013.

The incident remains under investigation and has been classified as intentional, Maui fire officials said.

Crews responding to the scene included personnel from the Maui Fire Department’s Engine-5 and Engine-13.

Authorities have confirmed that a separate fire was also reported earlier in the evening at the community center parking lot, and was also considered intentional.