Fire destroys Kapoho home

A person escaped without injury a burning home Thursday evening in Pahoa.

Responding to the 6:58 p.m. report, firefighters arrived at 14-5019 Laimana Road near Kapoho to find a single-family dwelling engulfed in flames, according to the Hawaii Fire Department. A Ford Focus adjacent to the structure was also on fire, and neighbors were working to keep the fire from spreading beyond the 1,300-square-foot home.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. The fire department deemed the house, valued at $105,000, a complete loss.

Volunteers with the American Red Cross are assisting affected residents to ensure their immediate emergency needs for food, shelter and clothing are met. Caseworkers will continue to follow up with anyone affected in the coming weeks to provide referrals, guidance or additional assistance as needed to help with the recovery process.