The official death toll from the Maui wildfires has risen to 106 people.
The latest number of fatalities was confirmed in an update from Maui County on Tuesday, which also stated that only five victims have so far been identified.
On Monday, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green announced the official total of fatalities then stood at 99 people in an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer.
First reported on Aug. 8, the devastating wildfires have affected the areas of Lahaina and Kula on the island.
On Tuesday, according to a post on the Maui County Facebook page, the fire in Kula was 75 percent contained, while the fire in Lahaina was 85 percent contained and had affected an estimated area of 2,170 acres.
Also on Tuesday, Maui County and the Maui Police Department released the identities of two victims: Robert Dyckman, 74, and Buddy Jantoc, 79, both of Lahaina.
I’m just here wondering how a “wild fire” can jump houses like that. 🤷 #MauiFire pic.twitter.com/7TjrLxFMMo
— Florida Grand (@florida_grand) August 14, 2023
“We offer our deepest condolences to the families who are beginning to receive notifications about their loved ones,” Maui Mayor Richard Bissen said in a statement. “As a community, we offer our prayers of comfort in this most difficult time.”
Three other people have also been identified and authorities said their names will be released when their families are notified.
