3 more Maui wildfire victims identified; death toll climbs to 111
Maui County and the Maui Police Department on Wednesday afternoon identified three more victims of the deadly Maui wildfires and reported that the total number of dead has increased to 111.
The following individuals have been identified and next of kin notified:
- 71-year-old Melva Benjamin of Lāhainā.
- 90-year-old Virginia Dofa of Lāhainā.
- 79-year-old Alfredo Galinato of Lāhainā.
They join 74-year-old Robert Dyckman and 79-year-old Buddy Jantoc, who were identified Tuesday, as the first five victims of the deadly wildfires to be named. Police and assisting partners have been working tirelessly to ensure proper protocols are followed while notifying the families of the victims.
“Our hearts go out to the families, friends and community affected by this devastating event,” a Maui County press release said Wednesday evening. “Our priority is to handle this situation with the utmost sensitivity and respect for those who are grieving.”
Authorities will continue to work closely with families to ensure they are updated and supported throughout this process.
There are another four victims who authorities have been able to identify; however, their names have not been released pending next of kin notification.