Officials have released the first names of individuals tragically killed by the devastating wildfires in Maui, one week after the catastrophe claimed at least 106 lives on the Hawaiian island. Among the victims are Robert Dyckman, 74, and Buddy Jantoc, 79. The identification of three other victims is being withheld until their families can be informed.
The catastrophic fire engulfed the historic town of Lahaina within hours, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The aftermath has prompted a painstaking and arduous search for victims, a process that has been hindered by the extent of the devastation.
Buddy Jantoc, known as “Mr. Aloha” to his family, was discovered at his residence in a senior-living facility in Lahaina. He was recognized for his musical legacy as a bass guitarist who once played alongside renowned artists Carlos Santana and George Benson.
With the assistance of twenty sniffer dogs trained to locate bodies, search teams are methodically combing through the wreckage that now covers a 5-square-mile (13-square-kilometer) area. As of Tuesday evening, approximately 27% of the disaster site had been combed through, according to Governor Josh Green. He anticipates that the death toll could significantly rise over the next 10 days.
Identifying the victims is a formidable task due to the severity of burns suffered by the deceased. This process involves the collection of DNA samples and the expertise of forensic professionals.
US President Joe Biden, under criticism for the perceived delay in visiting Maui, is set to travel there with First Lady Jill Biden. The White House has explained that President Biden’s decision to delay his visit was in consideration of diverting resources from ongoing recovery efforts.
While the true extent of the destruction remains uncertain, the Maui Emergency Management Agency has projected the rebuilding cost to reach $5.52 billion (£4.3 billion). Amidst frustrations about the pace of recovery, residents are striving to assist one another through grassroots efforts, providing essentials like ice, water, clothing, and supplies to those affected.
The Honoapiilani Highway, a primary route into Lahaina, is set to reopen for non-residents. However, officials urge individuals to use the route only if necessary for living, working, or volunteering, keeping in mind the ongoing recovery efforts and the significance of the catastrophe.
-BBC-
