According to a press statement provided by the Maui County, between 1,000 and 1,100 individuals are still unaccounted for following the recent Maui wildfire disaster, as confirmed by emergency response officials on Tuesday. The catastrophe has left the community grappling with uncertainty and grief, with hopes for reuniting families hanging in the balance.
The death toll due to the wildfires has climbed to 115, Mauili Police confirmed. So far, only Individuals identified, the family notified: 21 and Individuals identified, family not located/notified: 22.
According to the Maui County, the initial count of unaccounted for individuals had exceeded 1,400, but there is a glimmer of hope as more than 1,400 individuals previously reported as missing have been located safe and sound. “These numbers, however, are expected to change in the coming days and weeks as additional reports are submitted and as the joint efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Maui Police Department (MPD), and other law enforcement agencies persist in locating those who remain missing,” the County said.
Maui’s Mayor Richard Bissen expressed his deep appreciation for the tireless work of the law enforcement agencies involved in this critical mission. He acknowledged the challenges that families are facing during this difficult time and conveyed his heartfelt support for those affected.
“If you have already submitted complaints to the Maui Police Department about a missing person, or to the FBI, or anyone else, please follow back up to ensure that they have the most up-to-date and accurate information, including dates of birth, what they look like, who they’re related to, further contact information,” urged FBI Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill.
In response to the tragedy, the county’s Family Assistance Center has stepped in to offer support to affected families and individuals. One vital effort involves collecting DNA samples to aid in the identification process. Immediate family members of those reported as unaccounted for are encouraged to visit the Family Assistance Center at the Hyatt Regency’s Monarchy Ballroom in Lahaina between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily to submit DNA samples. Those residing outside of Maui are also being accommodated, with the FBI overseeing the coordination of DNA sample submissions.
Maui County Prosecutor Andrew Martin, who is leading the coordination of the Family Assistance Center, emphasized that the collected DNA samples would exclusively be utilized for the purpose of identifying wildfire victims and survivors. He sought to allay concerns, assuring the community that the samples would not be stored or used for any other intent.
As the heart-wrenching search continues and the community bands together in the face of this tragedy, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, local authorities, and the affected families themselves remain steadfast. The road ahead may be challenging, but with unity and support, Maui is determined to navigate these dark times and find hope amid the devastation.
For anyone who may have information regarding unaccounted individuals or wishes to submit a report, please contact the Maui Police Department at unaccounted@mpd.net. Individuals who previously reported someone as unaccounted for but have since made contact are urged to reach out to the FBI at (808) 566-4300 or hn-command-post@ic.fbi.gov to update their information and status.
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