Hilo home destroyed in early morning structure fire
No injuries were reported following a structure fire in Hilo early this morning.
The call came in at 5:14 a.m. When Hawai‘i Fire Department responded to the single-family dwelling on Kaumana Drive, it was engulfed in flames and the occupant of the residence had already evacuated.
Deputy Chief Eric Moller said crews received reports that the blaze started in the kitchen. At least one explosion, suspected to be a propane tank, was heard.
Kaumana Drive between Wilder Road and Amau Road was closed for about an hour. Fire inspectors responded to the scene as well as Hawaiian Electric due to a down power line as well as the gas company.
Moller said the home was a total loss. A vehicle also appeared damaged by the flames.