The Hawai‘i Island Police Department has opened an arson investigation relative to a structure fire that occurred at the old Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel on Banyan Drive this morning. The cause of the fire, which has estimated damages topping $2 million, is believed to be electrical in nature and possibly due to tampering with an electrical junction box.

During a sweep of the property, police located a 29-year-old man, later identified as Antanacious Nau, and determined that he was wanted for an outstanding bench warrant and promotion of a dangerous drug. Nau was arrested for the warrant and drug offense, however he has not been arrested relating to the arson. He was released pending investigation on all the drug offenses and criminal trespassing, but remains in police custody at this time on the bench warrant.  Detectives from Hawai‘i Police Department’s Area I Vice Section are continuing the drug investigation.

In addition two Hilo men, 37 year-old Ricardo Cordeiro and 40 year-old Nohelani Cordiero were issued citations for HRS 708-814.7 Criminal Trespass on State Land after being found asleep at the former hotel.

Detectives from Hawai’i Police Department’s Area I Criminal Investigation Section will be continuing the arson investigation. Police ask that anyone with information regarding this incident to call the police department’s non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.