Police suspect arson in Puna fire

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Big Island police have initiated an arson investigation in connection with a fire last week in Puna.

Big Island police have initiated an arson investigation in connection with a fire last week in Puna.

At 5:37 p.m. Thursday, a structure fire was reported on 38th Avenue in the Orchidland Estates subdivision, according to the Hawaii Police Department. The house, valued at an estimated $155,000, was destroyed in the fire.

A Hawaii Fire Department’s Arson Canine Team dog determined that the fire was deliberately set, according to police.

The police department’s Criminal Investigations Section is continuing the arson investigation. They ask that anyone with information about the case contact Detective Wendall Carter at 961-2378 or wcarter@co.hawaii.hi.us or the department’s nonemergency line at 935-3311.

Those who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 329-8181 in Kona or 961-8300 in Hilo. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.