Fireworks Spark Kīhei Home Fire, Cause $520K Damage

Oe Steet fire, July 18, 2014. Photo courtesy Kimanzi Constable.

By Maui Now Staff

Fire officials say fireworks are to blame for a residential fire that destroyed a two-story Oe Street home in Kīhei, causing an estimated $520,000 in damage.

The fire was reported at 4:31 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2014, was brought under control by 5:20 p.m., and was extinguished at 8:42 p.m., according to department reports.

The fire originated in the backyard of the home located at 210 Oe Street, and quickly spread to the structure, said Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga.

Crews from the Kīhei and Wailea fire stations arrived on scene to find the 2,400 square foot home fully involved in fire, moments after reaching the scene, said Mainaga.

According to department reports, damages included $400,000 to the structure, $50,000 to the contents of the home, and $70,000 in damage to vehicle and miscellaneous equipment stored in the backyard.

All occupants were out of the home as fire fighters began to fight the blaze and no injuries were reported.

The American Red Cross responded to assist family members with temporary housing, food, water, clothing and transportation.Red Cross officials say caseworkers will continue to follow up with those affected in the coming weeks to provide referrals, guidance or additional assistance as needed to help with the recovery process.

The Red Cross is a non-profit humanitarian organization which provides assistance free of charge to meet the immediate emergency needs of those affected by disasters.