Hilo Man Arrested for Arson in Pepe‘ekeō Fire Investigation

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating a late-night structure fire that destroyed an apartment complex in Pepe‘ekeō on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. One person has been arrested in connection with the incident.

At 10:34 p.m., South Hilo patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department (HFD) personnel responded to a reported structure fire at an apartment complex on the 28-2900 block of Kumula Street. After approximately two hours, firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, which was contained to one building. No injuries were reported.

Upon arrival, police learned that a 33-year-old man, later identified as Kainoa K. Santos of Hilo, was seen by a witness leaving the apartment as the fire began. Santos was subsequently arrested for first-degree arson. He was also arrested and later charged for an unrelated outstanding arrest warrant.

HFD inspectors determined the cause of the fire to be incendiary in nature. Damage to the structure is estimated at $1,152,000.

The American Red Cross responded to assist approximately 12 displaced residents, providing emergency shelter and temporary housing assistance.

Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigation Section are continuing the investigation.

Police ask anyone with information about this case to contact Detective Joseph Picadura at (808) 961-2375 or email joseph.picadura@hawaiipolice.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.