‘Nothing left’: Future unclear for Hawaii residents who lost it all in fire

The future remains uncertain for residents of Hawaii who have lost everything in a devastating fire. Among those affected is Thomas Leonard, a retired mailman and Vietnam veteran, who resided in Hawaii’s historic former capital for 44 years before a rapidly spreading wildfire destroyed his apartment and car, forcing him to take refuge behind a seawall for four hours.

With his belongings gone, Leonard stated, “I’ve got nothing left,” and described himself as a now homeless disabled veteran. The fire swept through the coastal town of Lahaina, Maui, claiming dozens of lives with expectations that the number may rise, and annihilating over 1,000 buildings. This has turned the ancient settlement, cherished by both tourists and locals, into a barren, scorched land.

The catastrophe has had a global impact, especially because Maui is a popular tourist destination known for its white sand beaches and rich history. While thousands of tourists have fled, the local inhabitants of Lahaina, who have lost all they had, find themselves stranded with no homes to return to.

Deborah Leoffler is another victim who lost a family home that had been a part of her lineage since 1945. Though she is without access to her bank account, having left her debit cards behind, she finds solace in having her family safe.

Meanwhile, Myrna Ah Hee’s home was spared, but she and her husband are frantically searching for his missing brother, a Vietnam veteran suffering from PTSD. Several other family members have lost their homes, emphasizing the need to rebuild not only the town but also the relationships and community spirit that once thrived.

Leonard’s terrifying escape story involved fleeing his vehicle before it exploded, and seeking shelter by a seawall where many were forced to jump into the water to escape the fire. Despite suffering burns, he found relative safety before being escorted out by firefighters.

Governor Josh Green summarized the situation, stating that Lahaina has largely been burned down. As Leonard contemplates his next steps, seeking assistance with medications and insurance matters, he reflects a sense of despair shared by many, uncertain of where to go or how to rebuild their lives in a town that once was home.

The tragic event continues to unfold, with more detailed reporting provided by Big Big News. The AP maintains full responsibility for their content, with support from several private foundations for their climate and environmental coverage.

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More about fokus keyword Lahaina fire

• Lahaina, Maui Wildfire Updates
• Hawaii State Government’s Official Fire Reports
• Red Cross Assistance for Hawaii Fire Victims
• Big Big News’ Climate and Environmental Coverage
• Department of Veterans Affairs Support for Veterans