No fatalities, injuries reported in early Sunday morning downtown Hilo fire

A fire occurred just before 1 a.m. Sunday on Kinoole and Haili streets, displacing seven residents and causing the evacuation of dozens of other residents from nearby buildings, according to a County of Hawaii release. There were no fatalities or injuries, though the fire destroyed four buildings.

Hawaii County agencies, including the Red Cross, Hope Services, the Salvation Army and Vibrant Hawaii, worked to provide shelter and meals for those displaced by the fire or unable to immediately return home.

The Mass Transit Agency provided transportation for those affected to a shelter set up at the county’s Hoolulu Complex, complete with meal service and showers. Evacuated residents were allowed to return to their homes by about 4 p.m. but the shelter remained open throughout the night.

Another fire occurred on Saturday in Hilo that caused two fatalities and displaced 28 residents, who were assisted by the Red Cross and Hope Services.

“Our community faced multiple tragic events this weekend, including the loss of two lives during a structure fire in Hilo on Saturday. On behalf of the County of Hawaii, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those we lost,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda in the release.

“On Sunday, a separate fire destroyed four buildings in downtown Hilo. While we are grateful that no lives were lost, the impact on our community remains significant. I want to express my profound gratitude to our first responders, who worked tirelessly and courageously this weekend to protect life and property. Your service is invaluable.

“I also wish to thank our nonprofit partners who are working closely with the County to provide essential support, including meals and shelter to those impacted. These fires remind us that our greatest strength lies in our dedication to our community and compassion for those in need.”

According to the county, the cause of both fires is unknown and remains under investigation.