Puna man charged with arson in relation to Orchidland Estates residential fire

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A Puna man was charged with arson in relation to the Orchidland Estates residential fire that took place on Sunday.

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Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen said that 43-year-old Conrad Keanini Gomes of Puna was arrested and charged in relation to a residential fire that occurred in the early morning hours on Sunday.

According to police reports, Keanini-Gomes and his wife lived within the residence located in the rear of a property owned by his father.

The fire caused approximately $300,000 damage to the residence, $5,000 damage to a nearby vehicle, and endangered four individuals, including two minor children.

Later that same day, Keanini-Gomes was arrested at the Hilo International Airport.

Keanini-Gomes made his initial appearance in Hilo District Court on Tuesday afternoon.

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Keanini-Gomes’ bail was maintained at $100,000, and he was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing on Wednesday.

As the Complaint alleges, Keanini-Gomes is charged with arson in the first degree, a class A felony offense which carries a penalty of a twenty-year prison term.

The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Anyone having information to assist law enforcement should contact Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

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