KAMUELA, Hawaiʻi – A sprawling, single-story residence in Kamuela, estimated to be approximately 7,000 square feet, sustained significant damage yesterday after a hidden fire broke out in its rafters and attic. Fire crews battled for several hours to contain the blaze, limiting the loss to an estimated $6 million out of the property’s $26 million value.
At approximately 12:53 a.m. yesterday, June 8, 2025, fire personnel arrived at the mega-sized home located at 68-1029 Pauoa Way in South Kohala. Upon arrival, smoke was visible coming from the rafters and attic in the southwest corner of the residence. Though no flames were initially present, the highest concentration of smoke pinpointed the area of concern.
Fire attack crews immediately deployed two lines for suppression. However, the fire proved challenging to locate as it was concealed within the structure. As crews began opening up the walls of a bedroom in the southwest corner, the fire’s progression became evident with heavy smoke banking down throughout the surrounding areas. As the efforts to expose the fire continued, flames eventually broke through the roof in that corner.
Due to the uncertainty of the fire’s extent and exact location, an additional fire company was requested to assist. Firefighters worked for several hours, methodically opening up walls and ceilings, until they were able to get ahead of the fire in the attic space. During this prolonged effort, there was an interior collapse of the roof in the large living room/kitchen area, potentially linked to an HVAC system located above the main fire.
Despite the hidden nature and rapid progression of the blaze, crews were able to successfully contain the fire to approximately 25% of the main structure.
The single-family residence, described as Type 5 construction, is occupied by tenants. The cause of the fire remains undetermined. The estimated loss from the incident is $6 million.