1 dead in Pearl City house fire
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One person is confirmed dead following a house fire in Pearl City.
Bryan Cheplic, spokesman for the city Emergency Services Department, said a death pronouncement was made at 1:10 p.m. at the scene of the fire, at 1358 Hoolaulea St.
Family members identified the victim as 89-year-old Lillian Sato.
Neighbors described her as very friendly and always smiling, and said she kept her yard in meticulous shape.
She was often seen raking leaves of the street in front of the house, much to the consternation of family members, her neighbors said.
The fire was reported about 12:30 p.m. and was contained and brought under control shortly after.
Police shut down Hoolaulea Street in both directions between Nanakai and Hookala streets while firefighters battled the blaze.
The Red Cross is also responding to help the affected residents.
Firefighters estimated damage to the house and its contents at $250,000.