Hawai‘i Island police have formally charged 33-year-old Kainoa K. Santos with first-degree arson following a fire that broke out in a Pepe‘ekeō apartment complex on Monday evening. The devastating fire, which was contained after about two hours, caused significant damage and led to the displacement of several residents. The Hawai‘i Police Department confirmed Santos's bail was set at $100,000, and he remains in custody.
Investigators were called to the scene at the apartment complex located on the 28-2900 block of Kumula Street around 10:34 p.m., where they worked alongside the Hawai‘i Fire Department to manage the flames. According to reports provided by Hoodline, no injuries were reported despite the late-night conflagration that prompted an estimated $1,152,000 in damages.
Detective Joseph Picadura of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section is spearheading the investigation into the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward. Directly contacting Detective Picadura at (808) 961-2375 or via email at [email protected] could provide crucial insights into the cause of the blaze. Anonymous tips are welcomed and can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling (808) 961-8300.
In the aftermath of the fire, the American Red Cross has been actively involved, offering emergency shelter and support for temporary housing for the displaced residents. Santos was apprehended and charged after allegedly being seen leaving the complex as the fire took hold. Alongside first-degree arson, he also faces charges related to an outstanding, unrelated arrest warrant.
