Wailuku Couple Displaced by Morning Fire

By Wendy Osher

A Wailuku couple was displaced from their residence when a fire this morning damaged their second floor studio ‘ohana unit.

The fire was reported by a neighbor who saw smoke coming fro the 1764 Nani Street Residence, located near the Wailuku bridge.

Firefighters were on scene within two minutes and had the fire extinguished within 10 minutes of receiving the first call at 7:06 a.m.  Engines from the Wailuku and Kahului Stations responded to the blaze as well as the Rescue and Hazmat Trucks from the Kahului Station.

Acting Battalion Chief Allen Duarte said the fire appeared to have started near an electrical outlet and was deemed to have been accidental.

A single person was home at the time of the fire and was awoken when firefighters made entry into the unit from an external stairwell.  Duarte said the 20 by 30 foot space sustained extensive smoke damage in addition to $2,500 in content damage and $5,000 in structural damage.

Volunteers with the American Red Cross are helping the displaced couple with immediate needs.  Caseworkers were prepared to assist with temporary food, shelter and clothing.  The agency will follow up in the coming weeks to provide referrals, guidance or additional assistance if necessary.