Two Victims Identified in Pueo Poi Factory Fire

Authorities say no foul play suspected in November 2025 blaze that killed two women.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:31pm

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Hawai'i Island police have identified the two women who died in the November 29, 2025 structure fire at the Pueo Poi factory in Hilo as 72-year-old Antoinette Amii and 56-year-old Neilla Lee. Autopsies were performed, but final results are still pending. Police and fire department investigators do not suspect foul play at this time.

Why it matters

The Pueo Poi factory fire was a tragic incident that claimed the lives of two local residents. Understanding the circumstances around the fire and identifying the victims is important for providing closure to the community and determining if any safety improvements are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The details

According to police, the fire occurred at the Pueo Poi factory in Hilo on November 29, 2025. Authorities have identified the two victims as 72-year-old Antoinette Amii and 56-year-old Neilla Lee. Autopsies have been performed, but final results are still pending. Police and fire department investigators have not found any evidence of foul play at this time.

  • The fire occurred on November 29, 2025 at the Pueo Poi factory in Hilo.
  • Autopsies on the two victims were performed, but final results are still pending.

The players

Antoinette Amii

A 72-year-old woman who died in the Pueo Poi factory fire.

Neilla Lee

A 56-year-old woman who died in the Pueo Poi factory fire.

Michael Matsumura

A detective with the Hawai'i Island Police Department's Area I Criminal Investigation Section who is investigating the case.

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What they’re saying

“Police ask anyone with information about this case to call Detective Michael Matsumura with the Area I Criminal Investigation Section at (808) 961-2386 or via email at Michael.Matsumura@hawaiicounty.gov.”

— Detective Michael Matsumura, Detective, Area I Criminal Investigation Section

What’s next

Authorities are awaiting the final autopsy results to determine the exact cause of the fire and deaths. They are also continuing to investigate the incident and ask anyone with information to come forward.

The takeaway

This tragic fire at the Pueo Poi factory has left the local community grieving the loss of two residents. While the exact cause is still under investigation, the police are working to provide answers and ensure the safety of the community moving forward.